Site Selection of Emergency Medical Centers (EMCs) Using Environmental Hazard Management Approach: A Case Study of Ardabil

Introduction: Many people call emergency medical centers (EMCs) during a day due to accidents or various diseases and they need to receive first aid. In order to provide first aid, it is necessary to send emergency workers and vehicles from the emergency medical services centers to the location of the accidents. Therefore, the accessibility of the EMCs and their being located in an appropriate place are of great importance. The objective of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution pattern of the existing EMCs and to introduce suitable areas for the establishment of new centers. Method: The present study was a descriptive-analytical one. Ardabil, a city in Iran, was selected as the study area for analysis. A total of 22 criteria were used for site selection. The Analytic Network Process (ANP) was used to determine the weights of the criteria and the VIKOR model was utilized in Geographic Information System (GIS) to prepare an urban zoning map for the site selection of new centers. Results: The existing EMCs cover only a limited part of Ardabil and many parts of the city, including the outskirts, cannot receive proper emergency medical services (EMS). The created map suggested new locations to increase accessibility. Conclusion: Spatial redistribution and allocation of EMCs can improve accessibility of these centers. The GIS can provide a good platform for the redistribution of EMS. Health policymakers and planners may use the results of this study to optimally allocate resources.