Go to Gerkoole Optimization Tool.$$

Familiarize yourself with the input fields, including the number of appointment slots, no$-$show probability, average appointment duration, and the number of patients.$$

Run the following scenarios$$

Below are example scenarios to input into the tool for analysis. Run these and observe the results.$$

Scenario $1$: Basic Scheduling$$

Inputs:$$

Number of Slots: $8$

Number of Patients: $12$

No$-$Show Probability: $0\mathrm{.}1(10\%)$

Average Appointment Duration: $30$ minutes$$

Objective: Analyze how patient distribution and scheduling efficiency affect utilization and idle time.$$

Scenario $2$: High No$-$Show Rates$$

Inputs:$$

Number of Slots: $10$

Number of Patients: $14$

No$-$Show Probability: $0\mathrm{.}3(30\%)$

Average Appointment Duration: $25$ minutes$$

Objective: Investigate the impact of high no$-$show rates on overall efficiency and overbooking strategies.$$

Scenario $3$: Overbooking Strategy$$

Inputs:$$

Number of Slots: $8$

Number of Patients: $16$

No$-$Show Probability: $0\mathrm{.}2(20\%)$

Average Appointment Duration: $20$ minutes$$

Objective: Determine whether overbooking improves utilization or leads to patient waiting times.$$

After running these scenarios:$$

Interpret the Results:$$

Look at metrics such as utilization rate, idle time, and waiting time.$$

Discuss the trade$-$offs observed $($e$.$g$.$ between overbooking and idle time$).$

Critical Thinking Questions:$$

Which strategy minimized idle time the most?$$

How does overbooking affect patient satisfaction?$$

What changes would you recommend for improving scheduling efficiency?$$