Utilizing Agent-based Simulation in a Lean Six Sigma Application to Reduce Patient Discharge Cycle Time: A Case Study in the UAE

Globally rising healthcare inefficiencies have forced the industry to adopt operational excellence methodologies and other approaches to deliver efficient and affordable services while maintaining patient satisfaction. However, there is no application of prominent OPEX methodologies, such as Six Sigma Methodology (SS) and Lean Thinking, nor agent-based simulation in the United Arab Emirates to enhance the quality and efficiency of the patient discharge process. Thus, this study bridges this gap, showing the efficacy of using these methodologies via a case study approach. The study effectively used several tools, including normality tests, capability analysis, fishbone diagram, Pareto chart, and value stream mapping, to validate the root causes and draw robust inferences. The study also simulated the current state of the discharge process to verify and validate the system performance and root causes and assess the efficiency of the proposed solutions. The simulation results illustrate a 56% decrease in the cycle time, a 74% decrease in non-value-added activities, and a 37% reduction in the waiting time of incoming patients through schedule optimization.