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A discrete-event simulation study for pre-hospital emergency systems

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  • Zilu Wang
  • Zhaolin Hu

Abstract

Ambulance dispatch, deployment, and relocation are crucial decisions in pre-hospital emergency medical services (EMS) that significantly impact response times. In metropolitan areas, the rapid movement of people and complex traffic conditions create a challenging environment for effective decision-making. This paper presents a discrete-event simulation framework designed to evaluate and improve pre-hospital emergency systems by capturing core EMS workflows and incorporating comprehensive, dynamic data. To demonstrate the practical application of this framework, a simulation instance is implemented and validated in the context of downtown Shanghai, with an analysis of key performance indicators for EMS in this area. Additionally, we propose a dynamic ambulance relocation model to improve the alignment between ambulance deployment plans and emergency calls. Simulation experiments show that dynamic ambulance relocation effectively reduces response times. Due to its ability to integrate real-time data, this framework has the potential to support immediate decision-making and evaluate proposed strategies in the real world.

Suggested Citation

  • Zilu Wang & Zhaolin Hu, 2025. "A discrete-event simulation study for pre-hospital emergency systems," Journal of Simulation, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 19(3), pages 283-303, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:tjsmxx:v:19:y:2025:i:3:p:283-303
    DOI: 10.1080/17477778.2024.2385994
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