The barriers affecting the rapid reaction of the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) of Red Crescent society using the DEMATEL technique

Background and Aim: Due to the increase in accidents and disasters in terms of quantity and severity, it is necessary to respond effectively in the form of crisis management, activation and removal of barriers affecting the rapid reaction of emergency centers. The aim of this study was to investigate the barriers affecting the rapid reaction of emergency operation centers in a branch of the Red Crescent Society in Tehran. Methods: The present study is an analytic study which has been conducted in branches of Red Crescent Society in Tehran, Iran during the first half of 2108. The Study population was the managers of the Red Crescent Society. Data collection was done using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and researcher-made questionnaire. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and DEMATEL technique using SPSS 18.0 and MATLAB software. Results: Based on the results of One-Sample T-test, all nine indicators were approved. The results of the DEMATEL model showed that the barriers "lack of proper operational vehicles" and "shortage of medical and relief medical personnel" with the coordinates (2.19: 26.68) and (2.09/27.11) were the most affecting and effected barriers, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results, to compensate for the shortage of operational vehicles and medical and relief personnel, repairing and equipping used operational vehicles, use of private sector capacities, professional training and operational standards in dealing with crises and accidents, and cooperation with specialized medical teams in other relief agencies are suggested.