Optimising Patient Flow in Cardiology Outpatient Clinics: A Simulation-Based Approach Using Queuing Theory

The objective of our study is to reduce the mean response and turnaround times for patients in the cardiology outpatient department of a hospital in Karachi. This paper explores the potential application of queuing theory for the optimization of appointments and operations management in a cardiology OPD setting. Simulating the queuing system under study offers an opportunity to determine how to minimize response and turnaround times for efficient services that are in high demand within the health sector. The findings indicate that the provision of extra resources at certain times of day, as well as a simulation-based approach, can reduce congestion and improve patient turnaround and response times, thereby improving service for patients.