A comparison of “fast” capacity planning methodologies in application to a health care facility

This paper compares the use of four “fast” capacity planning techniques to estimate requirements in a critical health care facility, a surgical intensive care unit (SICU). Each of the techniques is described, models applicable to the SICU facility are developed and indices which estimate performance are calculated. The crucial issue addressed is estimation of the relative level of service that a facility design will afford patients. Results indicate relative utility of the techniques in facility planning.