title: Optimizing sterilization logistics in hospitals.
abstract: This paper deals with the optimization of the flow of sterile instruments in hospitals which takes place between the sterilization department and the operating theatre. This topic is especially of interest in view of the current attempts of hospitals to cut cost by outsourcing sterilization tasks. Oftentimes, outsourcing implies placing the sterilization unit at a larger distance, hence introducing a longer logistic loop, which may result in lower instrument availability, and higher cost. This paper discusses the optimization problems that have to be solved when redesigning processes so as to improve material availability and reduce cost. We consider changing the logistic management principles, use of visibility information, and optimizing the composition of the nets of sterile materials.
authors.affiliation: Department of Quantitative Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Universiteit Maastricht, P.O. Box 616 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands. jj.vandeklundert@ke.unimaas.nl
authors.forename: Joris
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: van de Klundert
authors.forename: Philippe
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Muls
authors.forename: Maarten
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Schadd
mesh_terms: D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D006739:Hospital Administration / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008421:Materials Management, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009873:Operating Rooms / Q000458:organization & administration; D013242:Sterilization; D013525:Surgical Instruments; D013598:Systems Theory