A Prevention-Focused Geospatial Epidemiology Framework for Identifying Multilevel Vulnerability Across Diverse...

Background/Objectives: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offer essential capabilities for identifying spatial concentrations of vulnerability and strengthening context-aware prevention strategies. This manuscript describes a geospatial architecture designed to generate anticipatory, place-based risk identification applicable across diverse community and institutional environments. Interpersonal Violence (IPV), one of several preventable harms that benefit from this spatially informed analysis, remains a critical public health challenge shaped by structural, ecological, and situational factors. Methods: The conceptual framework presented integrates de-identified surveillance data, ecological indicators, environmental and temporal dynamics into a unified spatial epidemiological model. Multilevel data layers are geocoded, spatially matched, and analyzed using clustering (e.g., Getis-Ord Gi*), spatial dependence metrics (e.g., Moran's I), and contextual modeling to support anticipatory identification of elevated vulnerability. Framework Outputs: The model is designed to identify spatial clustering, mobility-linked risk patterns, and emerging escalation zones using neighborhood disadvantage, built-environment factors, and situational markers. Outputs are intended to support both clinical decision-making (e.g., geocoded trauma screening, and context-aware discharge planning), and community-level prevention (e.g., targeted environmental interventions and cross-sector resource coordination). Conclusions: This framework synthesizes behavioral theory, spatial epidemiology, and prevention science into an integrative architecture for coordinated public health response. As a conceptual foundation for future empirical research, it advances the development of more dynamic, spatially informed, and equity-focused prevention systems.