APPLICATION OF QUEUING THEORY AT THE RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT IN ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC CENTER LUMHS

Abstract

Background: Radiology departments play a critical role in modern healthcare by providing essential diagnostic imaging services. However, increasing patient demand, limited resources, and workflow inefficiencies often result in prolonged waiting times and reduced patient satisfaction. The application of queuing theory offers a systematic approach to analyze patient flow, optimize service delivery, and enhance operational efficiency in radiology settings. Aims & Objective: This study aimed to evaluate patient waiting time and service efficiency using queuing theory at the Advanced Diagnostic Center of Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, assuming a high-volume population representative of urban centers such as Karachi. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted over three months among 200 patients visiting the Advanced Diagnostic Center. Non-probability purposive sampling was employed. Data regarding demographics, imaging modality, procedure duration, waiting time, and report dispatch were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Queuing parameters were interpreted based on arrival patterns, service rates, and queue discipline. Results & Findings: Among 200 participants, 75% were female and 25% were male. Ultrasound was the most frequently utilized imaging modality (50%), followed by MRI (25%), CT scan (15%), and X-ray (10%). Average procedure duration was approximately 10 minutes for ultrasound, 45 minutes for MRI, 5 minutes for CT scan, and 3 minutes for X-ray. Nearly 45% of patients spent 1–2 hours at the diagnostic center, while 40% experienced waiting times exceeding two hours. Ultrasound reports were typically dispatched within two hours, whereas MRI reports required up to two days. Queue congestion was primarily associated with uneven patient arrivals and longer MRI service duration. Conclusion: The findings indicate moderate waiting times with significant modality- based variability in service duration and report turnaround. The application of queuing theory highlights workflow inefficiencies, particularly in MRI services, and underscores the need for improved scheduling, resource allocation, and digital reporting systems to enhance radiology department performance and patient satisfaction.