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Hybrid simulation for health and social care: The way forward, or more trouble than it's worth?

This paper describes the process of developing a hybrid simulation model for a disease called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of sight loss in people aged over 65. The model is implemented in the software AnyLogic, and combines discrete-event and agent-based simulation. Embedded in each agent there is also an individual compartmental model for disease progression. The overall aim of the hybrid model was to use the specific example of AMD to explore the wider links between the health and social care systems in the UK. We discuss the challenges of model development and the rationale for our modelling decisions, and reflect upon the advantages and disadvantages of using a hybrid model in this case.