A Geographic Information Systems-Based Analysis of Response Time and Hospital Coverage Area in Sukhothai Province, Thailand

Abstract

In this study, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were employed to analyze emergency medical services (EMS) coverage and response times in Sukhothai Province, Thailand. The primary objective was to evaluate the efficiency and reach of EMS in different districts, taking into consideration various response time scenarios. Utilizing ArcMap software, buffer zones were created around hospitals to represent EMS coverage areas based on distances corresponding to response times of 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, and 25 minutes. The research employs buffer zones to calculate coverage areas for response times ranging from 5 to 30 minutes, based on an average EMS speed of 40 kph. Findings reveal significant variations in EMS coverage, with densely populated areas generally well-served within a 20-minute response time, while remote and mountainous regions face substantial access challenges. Even at a 30-minute response time, 17.23% of the province remains uncovered, primarily in mountainous areas. The study highlights that no district achieves full coverage within a 10-minute response time, particularly in peripheral sub-districts. Analysis of district-level data exposes stark disparities, with smaller districts like Si Nakhon showing higher coverage percentages compared to larger, more challenging terrains such as Si Satchanalai. These results emphasize the need for targeted improvements in EMS infrastructure, resource allocation, and innovative solutions to ensure equitable access to emergency care across Sukhothai Province. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare planners to optimize EMS deployment and enhance emergency response capabilities in the region.