Conclusions
The results proved to be very complex and very dynamic as multiple parameters were examined, all having a large impact on the overall problem. However, there were situations where adding exchange would clearly not help, and would even be detrimental, cases where adding exchange would most likely help, and cases on the edge. The cases on the edge could be beneficial depending on the transfer and expiration costs.
With the results gathered, the transfer window of two weeks appears to be the most beneficial, especially when combined with a 25% capacity level.
It has minimal expirations and uses a relatively low number of transfers to achieve this fact. In addition, it has less than five instances of running out of a product, which is an acceptable result.
Finally, in addition to hospital systems, the program, as it was written in a general matter, could be applied to any systems where there are products that expire. For example, the program could be applied to military bases with expiring food provisions, medical devices and equipment, and ammo. The program has room for improvement but has a significant start and can be applicable to many situations.
With the results gathered, the transfer window of two weeks appears to be the most beneficial, especially when combined with a 25% capacity level.
It has minimal expirations and uses a relatively low number of transfers to achieve this fact. In addition, it has less than five instances of running out of a product, which is an acceptable result.
Finally, in addition to hospital systems, the program, as it was written in a general matter, could be applied to any systems where there are products that expire. For example, the program could be applied to military bases with expiring food provisions, medical devices and equipment, and ammo. The program has room for improvement but has a significant start and can be applicable to many situations.