Simulation game for managing the laboratory sevice

Abstract

The goal of this research is to develop, test, and implement a simulation game capable of assisting VA laboratory decision makers in planning program changes, altering systems and procedures, determining staffing levels based on variable demands for service, rearranging space utilization and/or evaluating possible equipment acquisitions. The secondary goal is to teach laboratory management skills to supervisory personnel. The simulation game will be designed to process the kinds of information generated by the new VA computer based management information systems (MIS). It is expected that development of the game at this time will aid in the definition of the laboratory MIS.A principal feature of the model will be its transferability to any VA Medical Center. To this end, parts of the simulation game will be developed at 2 different sites. Upon completion, these parts will be joined into a single model and tested in a third medical center. Personnel from Medical District 14 and the Laboratory Management Consultation Program at the Centers for Disease Control will evaluate the transferability of the game among VAMCs.