How are operating rooms assigned to surgeons? Why can’t operating rooms be open 24-7?

To answer the question of operation room efficiency, The CBC’s White Coat, Black Art host Dr. Brian Goldman spoke to Professor Dionne Aleman (MIE).

The answer? Not so simple. Professor Aleman, an affiliate of the Centre for Research in Healthcare Engineering (CRHE), explained a number of medical and administrative personnel are needed, which prevents operating rooms from being open 24 hours. Also, emergencies need to be accommodated as they arise.

Professor Aleman has worked with Toronto General Hospital using quantitative modeling techniques to improve their operating room scheduling.

Surgeons presently select their preferred surgical hours. In her study, Professor Aleman determined how to better schedule patients based on a variance, or uncertainty. “We looked at lots of historical procedures to see how often was the anticipated surgery time the actual surgery time that happened,” says Aleman.

With the study now concluded Professor Aleman is working to implement a pilot project on operation room scheduling with the University Health Network.

To listen to the interview, visit CBC.ca.