Optimizing Helicopter Air Ambulance Dispatch to Improve Sustainability in Interfacility Transfers

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Public health
• Healthcare operations

Background:

• Healthcare is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions (8.5% in the US).
• Helicopter air ambulances (HAAs) have significant environmental costs due to high fuel consumption and emissions.
• Optimizing HAA operations is crucial for reducing the healthcare sector's environmental impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore optimizing HAA dispatch strategies to minimize fuel consumption and emissions.
• To assess potential environmental benefits of improved HAA transport logistics.
• To demonstrate a scalable model for healthcare sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Developed a method to minimize total roundtrip travel distance for interfacility transports.
• Focused on STAT MedEvac's network, adhering to clinically acceptable time thresholds.
• Calculated potential savings in mileage, fuel, and emissions based on optimized dispatch decisions.

Main Results:

• Optimized dispatch strategies for interfacility transport showed potential annual savings of over 6,000 miles (1.8% of total distance).
• Corresponding reductions in fuel consumption and emissions were calculated.
• Further optimization with flexible time thresholds could potentially double these savings.

Conclusions:

• Minor adjustments in HAA dispatch strategies can yield substantial environmental benefits.
• Optimized HAA operations can reduce fuel use and emissions while maintaining high patient care standards.
• This approach offers a scalable model for enhancing sustainability within the healthcare sector.