MATHEMATICAL MODELING AND NUMERICAL ANALYSIS FOROPTIMIZING AMBULANCE ALLOCATION IN EMERGENCY SERVICES


Norozpour Sıgaroodı S.

International Journal of Applied Mathematics, cilt.38, sa.7, ss.194-204, 2025 (Scopus)

Özet

This study explores how to optimize the locations of ambulances to enhance overall coverage across a system. It employs a mathematical model that focuses on response time probabilities, which are crucial for effective emergency services. The response time is composed of two main components: pre-travel delays and the actual travel time. These elements are modeled using both normal and exponential distributions to capture the variability in response times accurately. To analyze the expected fraction of emergency calls that can be reached within a specified time frame, a differential equation is utilized. This equation is solved through the finite difference method, which allows for a detailed examination of response times. Moreover, an iterative numerical approach is implemented to maximize the expected coverage, denoted as E(C). This approach takes into account how ambulances are allocated across different districts, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. The results of the study reveal significant trends in coverage performance as ambulance allocations change. These findings underscore the model's effectiveness in informing decisions about resource distribution. Overall, this study offers a thorough framework for assessing and optimizing emergency response systems, providing valuable insights for improving public health and safety