Hospital policy changes in obstetric patient movement

In preparation for health care reform, many hospitals are contemplating redesigning their physical facilities and altering patient care policies. Uses a large Texas hospital as the subject of this study which was considering implementing policy changes in obstetric patient care along wiht constructing labour, delivery, recovery room suites. Uses simulation models based on Markovian patient movement to analyse whether their proposed changes will improve overall operational efficiency. The existing as well as proposed obstetric patient movement systems were developed and comparisons made based on average length of stay and total per-patient cost to the hospital. The quantitative models proved useful in improving decision making with regard to the alternatives. Argues that the methodology can be extended to other hospitals who seek to streamline patient movement to enhance efficiency and patient convenience.