Innovate and Validate: Design-Led Simulation Optimization to Test Centralized Registration Feasibility in a Multispecialty Clinic.

Abstract

This study utilizes a design-led simulation-optimization process (DLSO) to refine a hybrid registration model for a free-standing outpatient clinic. The goal is to assess the viability of employing DLSO for innovation support and highlight key factors influencing resource requirements. Manual registration in healthcare causes delays, impacting patient services and resource allocation. This study addresses these challenges by optimizing a hybrid centralized registration and adopting technology for efficiency. An iterative methodology with simulation optimization was designed to test a proof of concept. Configurations of four and five registration options within a hybrid centralized system were explored under preregistration adoption rates of 30% and 50%. Three self-service kiosks served as a baseline during concept design and test fits. Centralized registration accommodated a daily throughput of 2,000 people with a 30% baseline preregistration rate. Assessing preregistration impact on seating capacity showed significant reductions in demand and floor census. For four check-in stations, a 30%-50% preregistration increase led to a 32% seating demand reduction and a 26% decrease in maximum floor census. With five stations, a 50% preregistration reduced seating demand by 23% and maximum floor census by 20%. Innovating introduces complexity and uncertainties requiring buy-in from diverse stakeholders. DLSO experimentation proves beneficial for validating novel concepts during design.