Preprint Article Version 1 This version is not peer-reviewed

Assessment of Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Tests at Mass Events: Identifying Optimal Floor Plan Configurations for Enhanced Efficiency

Version 1 : Received: 15 August 2024 / Approved: 15 August 2024 / Online: 16 August 2024 (04:53:00 CEST)

How to cite: Khan, A. A.; Turki, A. F. Assessment of Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Tests at Mass Events: Identifying Optimal Floor Plan Configurations for Enhanced Efficiency. Preprints 2024, 2024081200. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.1200.v1 Khan, A. A.; Turki, A. F. Assessment of Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Tests at Mass Events: Identifying Optimal Floor Plan Configurations for Enhanced Efficiency. Preprints 2024, 2024081200. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.1200.v1

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the necessity for rapid, efficient testing at large-scale events. Developing rapid and efficient testing methods was critical, especially for events with a high risk of virus spread. The queueing theory offers a powerful tool to manage the flow of people through testing centers. This study uses the M/M/c model to examine how different floor plan configurations impact the efficiency of RADT testing centers. Aim of the study: This research applies queueing theory to optimize the Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT) processes at mass gatherings. The study uses the M/M/c queueing model to evaluate the dynamics of RADT centers configured in U-shaped and straight-line layouts. The primary goal is to assess the feasibility of using RADTs efficiently at events and mass gathering entrances, aiming to enhance throughput and minimize wait times. Methodology: The study involved 500 healthy participants, managed by medical staff across a U-shaped and a straight floor plans. Agile management techniques were employed to enhance operational efficiency. The process stages included queue number issuance, registration, sample collection, sample mixing, and results dissemination. Results: Both floor plans enabled the completion of RADT screening in approximately 2 minutes per participant. The U-shaped layout slightly outperformed the straight-line setup in efficiency, demonstrating its effectiveness in optimizing the testing process. Conclusion: This study confirms the feasibility of implementing Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test (RADT) processes at mass gatherings. It was found that the U-shaped floor plan configuration is particularly effective, indicating its potential suitability for future mass testing scenarios.

Keywords

COVID-19 Testing; Queueing Theory; M/M/c Model; Mass Gatherings; Operational Efficiency; Agile Management; System Throughput; Public Health Emergency Management; Antigen Testing; Process Optimization

Subject

Public Health and Healthcare, Health Policy and Services

Comments (0)

We encourage comments and feedback from a broad range of readers. See criteria for comments and our Diversity statement.

Leave a public comment
Send a private comment to the author(s)
* All users must log in before leaving a comment
Views 0
Downloads 0
Comments 0


×
Alerts
Notify me about updates to this article or when a peer-reviewed version is published.
We use cookies on our website to ensure you get the best experience.
Read more about our cookies here.