AI boosts OR efficiency and case volume

Managing an operating room (OR) schedule can feel like an intricate puzzle with constantly shifting pieces. Aligning surgeons’ availability, case demands, resources and specialized equipment by hand isn’t just time-consuming – it can lead to inefficiencies, unused block space and frustrated teams.

Now, those challenges are being solved as they happen.

With the launch of the iQueue operating room management platform, NKC Health has modernized scheduling across 24 surgical sites. The artificial intelligence-powered software uses predictive analytics to optimize case timing, improve resource allocation and streamline the entire scheduling process.

Unlike traditional scheduling models that rely on fixed time blocks, iQueue suggests ideal case durations based on a surgeon’s individual history, avoiding unnecessary gaps, delays or overbooked days. The result is more efficient use of OR time and smoother transitions from case prep to post-op.

“I can now add 28% more patients to the schedule,” said Joey Palguta, MSN, BSN, senior director of surgical services. “That wouldn’t have been possible before.”

iQueue’s insights build on five years of historical NKC Health data and continue to adapt daily.

“Let’s say we come in expecting 37 cases based on the schedule,” Joey explained. “iQueue might tell us to plan for 50 based on what it’s seeing in the data. And it’s usually spot-on.”

The platform also automates block time management, improves visibility of open slots and eliminates outdated methods like phone tag and manual spreadsheets.

“We no longer go back and forth between departments,” Joey added. “The scheduler can see all available slots and book them immediately.”

iQueue doesn’t just anticipate – it responds, adjusting in real time when surgeries run long or wrap up early.

“A common issue for surgeons is having open time in their block but not enough for a full case,” said Ian Rosbrugh, MD, with NKC Health Urogynecology. “For example, if there were two hours left in a block but a procedure takes just 90 minutes, that time often went unused in the past.”

Now, predictive tools help fill those gaps and even anticipate future needs. The system can flag increasing case volume for a surgeon – prompting proactive adjustments in block time, staffing and room availability.

“We can start planning for additional time before a surgeon even asks,” Joey said. “That means we’re better staffed and more prepared to handle add-ons without disrupting the day.”

Doctors can also view personalized dashboards showing case counts, on-time starts and turnover rates, helping them fine-tune how they use OR time. 

Managing high-value, specialized resources like robotic surgery systems has also become easier. 

“When I go down there and say my robots are full, I need more time,” Joey said, “I can now show proof of utilization and help justify the investments.”

The shift is measurable: Smarter workflows and data-backed decisions are streamlining processes and supporting more timely, patient-centered care.

"We've seen a 10% increase in case volume over the past six months,” Joey said, “which translates into millions of dollars in added revenue."