Abstract

Introduction
Capacity and demand planning in English health care
often follows historic patterns rather than a systemic
analysis of data and does not account for the effects of
agency on service performance. This discussion paper
reviews computer-based approaches to simulate
complex systems, with reference to emergency care
systems, in order to provide information to decision
makers.
Methods
A literature review.
Results: Simulation offers decision makers various views
of the effects of capacity and demand planning over
time. Various simulation approaches used in health care
research have produced useful information for service
optimisation. However, in health care application,
historic use of the simulation approaches is seen rather
than selection of the most appropriate approach.
Discussion and conclusion
Simulation provides a valuable tool for understanding
complex systems, the effects of capacity and demand
and the role of agency, but decision makers should
choose the appropriate approach according the
research problem.