What is demand and capacity modelling?

Demand and capacity modelling seeks to help decision makers to understand the impact of making changes in the health and social care system on future activity, demand and the supply of services.  Modelling typically consists of gathering data on current activity, demand and service capacity to establish a baseline; the forecasting of changes to the baseline measures over a period of time; and the modelling of the impact of any changes in services over the same time period.

When do you need demand and capacity modelling?

Demand and capacity modelling is particularly important in helping local decision makers to plan future service provision and to understand the impact of national and local initiatives.  This is particularly relevant during periods of financial constraint and in parts of the health and social care system where demand for services is growing quickly.  YHEC has worked on demand and capacity models in hospital, urgent and emergency care and diagnostic service areas.

How can we help you?

We can help you to:

• Specify and gather baseline data on current activity, demand and supply of services
• Design and develop a coherent conceptual model
• Construct a demand and capacity model in an appropriate software package
• Undertake comprehensive uncertainty analyses
• Prepare a detailed report to accompany the demand and capacity model
• Organise and host training events on the demand and capacity model for stakeholders