Management of Lines during Pandemics: Using Queuing Theory

Abstract

Abstract: In order to reduce the transmission of the viral disease in the coronavirus era, sustained social isolation measures have been required. To enforce social distance protocols, healthcare facilities are limiting the size of their working team and conducting their organisations on a shift-based schedule. The potential for creating waiting lines at service delivery sites is built into social distance protocol. Many countries' healthcare facilities are already overrun with patients seeking treatment for mild to serious illnesses on a regular basis. The already strained health systems are now under additional strain due to COVID-19. Despite an increase in visits, precautions for social distance must be taken. It is abbreviated to provide quick service, which is essential for patients visiting hospitals for treatment. Delivery, a vital requirement for patients visiting hospitals for medical care, is sped up. In most healthcare facilities, particularly in Ghana, waiting lines have become a typical occurrence and a barrier to providing healthcare. In addition to forfeiting financial gains, delays and subpar medical care may result in fatalities. In order to minimise the effects of COVID-19 and simultaneously cover capacity to fulfil the increased demands for health care delivery, units are tasked with managing staff schedules effectively. Therefore, making an effort to cut down on the amount of time needed to wait for medical attention is essential. Using query theory, we analyse the queue condition at a case Outpatient Department (OPD) in this work and provide suggestions for queue management. The research was carried out on May 2020. We also provide a method for calculating the ideal number of service windows needed to cut down on patient wait times. Additionally, a numerical analysis using pertinent equations from queuing theory is provided for the case department's queuing condition.