Bed Allocation Model for Infection Control During a Pandemic

Authors

Rosemary R. Seva, De La Salle University, Manila, PhilippinesFollow
Dennis E. Cruz, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
Lourdes Marie Tejero, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines

JEL Classification System

D61, I18

Abstract

This study proposes a model of allocating beds in a hospital considering infection control during a pandemic. The problem was formulated using the quadratic assignment problem (QAP) in a multi-period planning horizon. The main objective is to

minimize the spread of infection by maximizing the total distance (TD) between areas assigned to the pandemic and non- pandemic patients. Model validation using GAMS showed that the assignment of patient groups to areas is determined by

the arrival rates of patients and the area’s capacity. The model was able to identify periods when the sharing of space was more advantageous. The model’s outcome shows that assigning more rooms to pandemic patients can affect the spread of infection, but it is necessary. It is better to have smaller shareable spaces as the inflow of pandemic patients increases. Hospital administrators may use the model for planning, enabling them to identify and prepare areas to accommodate the increasing number of infectious patients, giving them the valuable lead time to do so. Managers can direct the flow of patients with more certainty, giving them more time and energy for other pressing matters. They may also incorporate other considerations specific to the circumstances of their facilities into this model.

Recommended Citation

Seva, Rosemary R.; Cruz, Dennis E.; and Tejero, Lourdes Marie (2025) "Bed Allocation Model for Infection Control During a Pandemic," DLSU Business & Economics Review: Vol. 34: No. 2, Article 8.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59588/2243-786X.1149
Available at: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/ber/vol34/iss2/8