Computer simulation as a basis for pharmacy reengineering.

Full Abstract

Using computer simulation can enhance the management decision-making process. Simulations can predict the effects on cost and quality of services. This article discusses the use of computer simulation to assist in planning the reengineering process to change a hospital's drug distribution from a decentralized pharmacy satellite system to a centralized robotic drug dispensing system. Because computer simulation was based on a fixed set of circumstances, circumstances changed before system implemented. Nursing and pharmacy staff and line managers were involved in the review, planning, and implementation that resulted in positive economic and quality outcomes for this project. For organizations to achieve successful change, administrators must play an active and essential part.

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Author information

Author/s: Buchanan, E Clyde (EC);

Affiliation: Pharmaceutical Services, Emory Hospitals, Wesley Woods Center, Emory Healthcare, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Nursing administration quarterly (Nurs Adm Q), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: -2003 Jan-Mar; vol 27 (issue 1) : pp 33-40

Dates: Created 2003/04/03; Completed 2003/04/18; Revised 2004/11/17;

PMID: 12674067, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 12/26/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Computer Simulation
Computer-Aided Design
Cost Control
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Decision Making, Organizational
Forecasting
Georgia
Hospital Restructuring - organization & administration
Hospitals, University

Humans
Medication Systems, Hospital - organization & administration
Organizational Innovation
Pharmacy Service, Hospital - organization & administration
Quality Assurance, Health Care
Robotics
Systems Analysis
Time Factors
Time and Motion Studies

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