A Review of Optimization Studies for SystemAppointment Scheduling

In the face of an increasingly high-demand environment for outpatients, achieving a balance between allocation of limited medical resources and patient satisfaction has considerable social and economic benefits. Therefore, appointment scheduling (AS) system operation is used in clinics and hospitals, and its operation optimization research is of great significance. This study reviews the research progress on appointment scheduling system optimization. Firstly, we classify and conclude the existing appointment scheduling system structures and decision-making frameworks. Subsequently, we summarize the system reliability optimization framework from three aspects: appointment scheduling system optimization objectives, decision variables and constraints. Following that, we methodically review the most relevant studies and offer insights into future directions. The findings highlight the importance of innovative approaches in optimizing AS systems to enhance patient experiences while improving operational efficiency. This comprehensive review serves as a resource for further research in the domain of appointment scheduling in healthcare settings.