Forecasting: unknowns and intangibles.
If the rate at which the patient population of a mental hospital is likely to decline can be predicted with reasonable accuracy, policies and plans can be put on a realistic basis. Len Goldstone, of the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, explains how simulation can give planners and managers a better chance of meeting future needs.
D005260:Female; D005544:Forecasting; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000639:trends*; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000639:trends*; D006752:Hospital Planning; D006778:Hospitals, Psychiatric / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D006113:United Kingdom