Optimizing ambulance allocation and routing is one of the most efficient ways for the EMS to save more lives at virtually no cost. However, current EMS software were developed under models that assume normal demands. They are unable to adapt to disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where traffic patterns change, case clusters emerge, and hospitals rapidly reach capacity. Decisions which are optimized for normal times can suddenly become very inefficient, leading to significant delay in care. Ideally, one would like to synthesize real-time information on case clusters, hospitals’ capacities and capabilities, waiting times, and traffic situation to coordinate responses between all ambulances.
This project aims to create such an optimal EMS routing strategy using real-time information. By design, the proposed system aims to rapidly adapt to changing situations and is robust to disruptions. It can guarantee that ambulances arrive at scenes the fastest and distribute patients optimally among care facilities.
Part of the Smart Cities Consortium.
Event Details
Date and Time
Jan. 19, 2021, All Day