Simulation-Based Optimization of Outpatient Appointment Scheduling in a Vietnam's Oncology Hospital

Doan Thuy Nha, Pham Huynh Tram

Abstract: This study aims to reduce outpatient waiting times at the Breast Division of a major oncology hospital in Ho Chi Minh City using discrete-event simulation (DES) and OptQuest optimization. A DES model was developed in Arena software to simulate hospital operations, encompassing patient flow through registration, consultation, testing, and pharmacy. The model considered both walk-in and appointed patients. Optimization via OptQuest focused on inter-appointment times and appointment volumes under two policies: strict-time and flexible-time entry. The current system showed an average wait of 163.46 minutes. Policy 1 reduced waiting to 112.77 minutes with 39 patients at 7-minute intervals, outperforming Policy 2 (132.46 minutes, 42 patients at 5-minute intervals). Policy 1 met national standards and is recommended for implementation.

Keywords: discrete-event simulation, OptQuest, outpatient scheduling, healthcare optimization, patient waiting time

How to Cite?: Doan Thuy Nha, Pham Huynh Tram, "Simulation-Based Optimization of Outpatient Appointment Scheduling in a Vietnam's Oncology Hospital", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 688-694, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25704120909, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25704120909