First prize in the Pfizer challenge

The Pfizer Foundation issued the following nationwide research challenge: “The proposed challenge is to design and test a simulation model for a data-based decision-making model to assist efficient patient waiting- list management. The model must assist decision-making that will reduce the time patients have to wait to be seen by a doctor, receive additional examinations and surgery in a healthcare service, unit, department, area, etc.).”

Researchers Fermín Mallor and Marta Cildoz entered the challenge with Project PLUS (PLanificador para Unidades de Salud /Healthcare unit planner) in which they integrate demand forecast, simulation and optimization models to achieve more efficient healthcare resource allocation and planning.

https://www.fundacionpfizer.org/e-deasalud2017/inscripcion-entrega-de-premios

http://www.noticiasdenavarra.com/2018/03/08/sociedad/navarra/premiado-un-proyecto-para-reducir-los-tiempos-de-espera-en-pacientes

https://www.navarra.es/home_es/Actualidad/Sala+de+prensa/Noticias/2018/03/07/Premiado+proyecto+UPNA+de+gestion+de+demanda+sanitaria+en+hospitales.htm

https://www.unavarra.es/actualidad/noticias?pagina=5&contentId=234350

Figure 1. Pfizer challenge finalists with Navarre Health Service and Pfizer Foundation managers.

Figure 2. Fermín Mallor, winner of the Pfizer challenge with colleague, Marta Cildoz and Óscar Moracho, Managing Director of the Navarre Health Service.

(+)Video of the award-given event