A review on the use of operational research techniques in the medical records department

Abstract

Introduction: Various operational research (OR) techniques have been used in different areas of healthcare. One of the areas in which OR techniques can be effective is the medical records department (MRD). The aim of this study is to review the applications of OR in the management of MRD and its related processes. Methods: This is a review article. In order to collect data, English-language studies published between 2000 and 2018, related to the use of OR techniques in MRD, in the Medline, Science Direct, ProQuest and Web of science databases were investigated. From 1165 retrieved studies, 19 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Results: The results showed that different OR techniques such as linear programming, integer programming, simulation, hierarchical analysis process, etc. have been used in various aspects of the MRD and its ongoing processes such as improving efficiency, workload management, resource allocation, optimal scheduling of staff work hours, patient scheduling, patient admission and discharge. Conclusion: It can be concluded that if the managers and experts of MRD and health information management become familiar with the principles and techniques of OR and become aware of the importance of these techniques in improving efficiency of MRD, there is a hope that in the future these techniques will find their true place in MRD and ultimately enhance the quality of services provided to patients.