Computer Simulation of a U.S. Army Prosthodontic Service

摘要

Through the use of computer simulation, this investigator compared the efficiency, productivity, and relative cost effectiveness of three different prosthodontic practice models: (1) Base Prosthodontic Model, (2) Additional Assistant Model, and (3) Expanded Functions Model. The Additional Assistant Model added additional resources (personnel and dental treatment rooms), while the Expanded Functions Model included process modifications as well as adding additional resources. This investigator compared the models based on the following results: (1) the patient's waiting room times, (2) the patient's total time-in clinic, (3) the total number of patients treated, and (4) the utilization rates for prosthodontists and dental assistants. The addition of extra assistants and dental treatment rooms provided some improvement in terms of efficiency and productivity. The most significant improvements occurred when process modifications were included, in addition to extra resources (Expanded Functions Model).