Mohaddese Arefi, Farzad Firouzijahantigh,
Volume 22, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and purpose: The organ transplant network is among the most complex and challenging systems in the healthcare sector. This study presents a three-objective hierarchical location model for kidney transplants, aiming to simultaneously minimize total time and costs while maximizing geographic equity in the supply and demand network for donated kidneys. Various transportation modes within the network are also analyzed.
Materials and Methods: This applied research was conducted over a one-year period in 2022 (1401 in the Iranian calendar) in the province of Sistan and Baluchistan. The proposed mathematical model was implemented in GAMS software and solved using the Torabi-Hosseini method and epsilon constraint technique.
Results: The model recommended establishing candidate locations for organ collection units and transplant centers without the need for air transport equipment. It suggested that only the candidate location number 2 at Zabol Hospital Transplant Center should be equipped with air transport facilities, while the other proposed locations do not require the establishment or use of air emergency services.
Conclusion: The results indicate that the designed kidney transplant network is practical and feasible. Efficient network management ensures that all organ recipients, even those far from the provincial center and in remote areas, have timely access to the necessary facilities and equipment for transplant operations.
