Hybrid simulation and modes of governance in UK healthcare

Abstract

PurposeHealthcare organisations exhibit detail and dynamic complexity. It has been argued that discrete event simulation (DES) is ideal for problems exhibiting detail complexity and system dynamics (SD) lends itself naturally to comprehend dynamic complexity. Appreciating the complexity of healthcare, this paper proposes the use of hybrid simulation wherein both SD and DES are integrated symbiotically. The paper further aims to describe how different forms of hybrid simulation can be applied to different modes of governance in UK healthcare.Design/methodology/approachIn order to find different ways that hybrid simulation can be effectively applied to different problem contexts, a literature review has been conducted to find existing hybrid studies. A meta‐review of literature on different modes of governance in UK healthcare has also been conducted.FindingsIt has been induced from the literature review that hybrid simulation can be used in three different formats: hierarchical format, process‐environment format, and integrated format. Literature on different modes of governance in UK healthcare further points out that there are three modes of governance in UK healthcare: top‐down performance hierarchical mode, network partnership mode, and quasi‐market mode.Research limitations/implicationsIt is believed that hybrid simulation will aid in forming a synergy between strategic and operational management. One of the limitations of this paper is that it does not provide any guidance with respect to technical automation of integration between SD and DES.Originality/valueThis paper proposes the use of hybrid simulation for complex healthcare problems and the way it can contribute towards effective decision making within different modes of governance.