DOI: 10.25259/jqus_35_2026 ISSN: 1658-9610
Applications of Operations Research (OR) Tools in Healthcare Systems: A Comprehensive Review
Badreddine JerbiThis paper provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the role of operations research (OR) approaches in modern healthcare systems. The study examines a broad range of OR techniques, including linear programming, simulation, queuing theory, stochastic optimization, decision analysis, and meta-heuristics. It focuses on critical operational domains such as patient scheduling, bed management, healthcare logistics, and emergency medical services. By synthesizing findings from 28 relevant studies, the review highlights the impact of OR on healthcare efficiency and patient outcomes while identifying implementation challenges and future technological directions.