Efficient management of outpatient departments (OPDs) in hospitals is critical to ensure timely care and minimizing patient wait times. This paper introduces a dynamic queuing algorithm designed to optimize appointment scheduling and patient flow management in healthcare systems. The proposed solution dynamically adjusts patient queues based on real-time factors such as patient priority, appointment type, and resource availability. By implementing this system, healthcare providers can better manage fluctuations in patient load and improve overall operational efficiency. A key innovation of this approach is its ability to reallocate resources and redistribute appointments dynamically, enhancing patient satisfaction and reducing delays. The algorithm has been tested using a simulated hospital environment, and results demonstrate significant improvements in reducing waiting times and improving appointment adherence. This work contributes to the development of smarter healthcare systems that prioritize both patient outcomes and hospital workflow.
Qureshi et al. (Tue,) studied this question.