Optimisation Models for Merging Ambulance Regions in the Netherlands

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Abstract

This thesis focuses on optimising the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in the Netherlands. In the current situation, the Netherlands is divided into 24 independent regions in which ambulances operate. These regions can be merged in order to reduce response time and increase efficiency. Different models are presented in which these regions are merged in an optimal way. The thesis starts with an explanation of the current regional system within the Netherlands. Next, two models following from existing literature are discussed. These two models are used as a basis for new models that optimise the merging of regions. Then, the results are discussed, which are in line with the assumption that merging regions leads to a better coverage and a reduction in the number of ambulances needed.

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