Design Thinking Approach for Resource Allocation in Emergency Departments

In hospital settings, Emergency Departments (EDs) often face overcrowding and inefficiencies due to unpredictable patient demand. This study addresses these challenges by integrating design thinking principles with experimental design methodologies. We introduce a novel approach combining design thinking, regression modeling, and Discrete Event Simulation (DES) to enhance resource allocation and reduce patient Length of Stay (LOS) in EDs. Design thinking involves phases such as understanding, abstraction, ideation, testing, and implementation, with each phase incorporating DES or regression modeling to evaluate system performance. Multiple regression models examine relationships between nurses, beds, physicians, and patient stays, offering insights into key performance indicators and resource allocation. The research aims to develop an optimal resource allocation strategy by exploring interactions between resource management and patient waiting times. The findings highlight the critical resource factors that influence patient flow. A case study demonstrates significant reductions in patient LOS, promising an improved patient experience. Our framework equips healthcare institutions with knowledge for informed decision making and strategic changes, aligning with the overall objectives of the study.