ORH’s approach to resource planning in the Health and Emergency services is based around the preparation and validation of a model of service provision that can then be used to quantify the impact of changes in controllable and uncontrollable factors on service performance.

Models differ depending on the application, but are typically simulation programs written in C++. These programs are supplemented by a generic optimisation program, ‘OGRE’, that is used to find ‘best’ locations and deployments given a range of specific optimising criteria.

The study process involves an in-depth analysis of the current service to provide the parameters for model validation and to highlight the potential for change. Options for change are simulated to show the impact on the efficiency, effectiveness and equity of the system. A range of sensitivity analyses are then undertaken to test the robustness of favourable shortlisted options.

Within this overall scheme, a distinct modelling approach is taken within Fire, Ambulance, Police and Health services.



Use the Approach tab for more on Simulation and Optimisation.