Fostering Collaborative Simulation Modelling: a new approach to support trauma care improvement at ULSSM

December 3, 2025

Trauma places a major burden on society, being the leading cause of death among young people and leaving many with permanent disabilities. Ensuring that trauma patients receive optimal care is an urgent priority. Complex healthcare systems, such as trauma systems, can be analysed using simulation modelling methods like Discrete Event Simulation (DES). However, in such multidisciplinary settings, involving multiple stakeholders in the modelling process is key, which is not possible with the participatory methods currently applied. This thesis aims to advance participatory DES by exploring new methods that enable the engagement of larger and more diverse stakeholder groups. Additionally, it seeks to support ULSSM with tools to analyse and improve care for major trauma patients. To achieve these objectives, a three-step methodology was applied: first, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify participatory methods currently used in DES; second, based on the limitations identified in the review, new online methods were explored to complement existing face-to-face methods, with Web-Delphi emerging as a valuable option; and third, a participatory approach based on exploratory interviews was applied at ULSSM to inform on the current functioning and challenges of major trauma care within the institution. The methodology achieved both objectives, contributing novel participatory approaches based on Web-Delphi and supporting ULSSM in gaining a deeper understanding of its trauma system and potential areas for improvement.

Authors in the community:

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  M

  Mariana Vila Flor da Costa

  ist199703

Supervisors of this institution:

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  M

  Mónica Duarte Correia de Oliveira

  ist14410

industrial-biotechnology - Industrial Biotechnology

eng - English

Instituto Superior Técnico