The role of information visibility on healthcare resource network performance: an agent-based simulation approach

This manuscript explores the impact of information visibility and patient preferences on the performance of healthcare resource networks. Utilising an agent-based model, the research examines how factors like distance, appointment waiting time, and information visibility about resource congestion influence patients’ choices and, consequently, resource utilisation. The study reveals that patients empowered with information on the status of the system congestion tend to make choices that lead to more efficient use of healthcare resources. The research also explores the effects of resource reallocation and capacity expansion, finding that improved information visibility can partially compensate for these—usually more expensive—strategies.