ENTIMOS: A Discrete Event Simulation Model for Maximising Efficiency of Infusion Suites in Centres Treating Multiple Sclerosis Patients

• DOI: 10.1007/s40258-022-00733-0
• Publication Date: 2022-05-19T02:03:34Z
• Authors: Kristyna Lacinova; Praveen Thokala; Richard Nicholas; Pamela Dobay; Erik Scalfaro; Zuzanna Angehrn; Roisin Brennan; Ibolya Boer; Carol Lines; Nicholas Adlard
• Keywords: Discrete-Event Simulation

Improved multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis and increased availability of intravenous disease-modifying treatments can lead to overburdening infusion centres. This study was focused on developing a decision-support tool help centres plan their operations.A discrete event simulation model ('ENTIMOS') developed using Simul8 software in collaboration with clinical experts. Model inputs included treatment-specific parameters, resources such as chairs nursing staff, costs, while outputs patient throughput, waiting time, queue size, resource utilisation, costs. The parameterised characteristics the Charing Cross Hospital Infusion Centre London, UK, where 12 were deployed for 170 non-MS 860 MS patients March 2021. number projected increase by seven new per week.The model-estimated time an is, average, 8 days beyond recommendation first year simulation. Without corrective action, delay receiving due treatment is anticipated reach 30 average at months from start Such system compromise be prevented either adding one chair annually or switching 7% existing 24% alternative not requiring infusion.ENTIMOS flexible flow care delivery serving patients. It allows users simulate specific local settings therefore identify measures that are necessary avoid clinically significant resulting suboptimal care.