Dr. Björn Gunnarsson1, Ms. Phuong Nguyen2, Mr. Sveinbjörn Dúason1, Dr Ármann Ingólfsson2
1Institute of Health Science Research, University of Akureyri, Akureyri, Iceland, 2Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
Abstract:
Models for the optimal location of ambulance bases typically focus on minimizing response time, but for some patients, the total pre-hospital time may matter more than response time. Iceland’s geography and population distribution imply that fixed-wing air ambulances are an important mode for transporting emergency patients to one of the small number of hospitals with capabilities to treat patients with severe illness or injuries. Helicopter ambulances have the potential to improve service for incidents that occur far from the closest airport. We formulate a model to maximize the proportion of patients that reach hospital within a set time standard. The model includes three transport modes (ground, fixed-wing, and helicopter), and incorporates the addition of new helicopter bases to a single existing fixed-wing base and multiple existing ground ambulance bases. We discuss the model implementation and validation, and the potential for its continued use to support strategic and operational decisions. This includes the development of a web application with an aim to i) identifying the optimal locations for potential helicopter bases based on the distribution of demand across the country and ii) assisting dispatchers in making informed decisions regarding the transport mode selection and assessing total pre-hospital time.
Biographies:
Dr. Gunnarsson is a medical professional with a diverse international background. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Iceland and furthered his specialized training in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Neonatology, and Anesthesiology in the USA and Norway. He earned his PhD from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. NN has served as a flight physician in HEMS, SARH, and fixed-wing capacities across the USA, Norway, Greenland, and Iceland. Currently, he practices as an anesthesiologist in Akureyri, Iceland, and holds a position as an associate professor at the University of Akureyri.
Committed to advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Gunnarsson’s research interests focus on optimizing prehospital care, reflecting his dedication to improving patient outcomes and healthcare practices.