Designing the structural model of temporary medical centers in biological emergencies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Considering the importance of getting prepared for biological accidents and emergencies caused by the spread of biological agents, it seems necessary to design and codify a specific structural model for the establishment of temporary medical centers and hospitals. The present study was designed to provide a structural model of temporary medical centers in biological emergencies. This is a mixed-method study devised to present a model for the establishment of temporary medical centers. Multi-criteria decision-making methods were implemented in the quantitative section. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, including Shannon entropy and TOPSIS, were used in this study to prioritize the components. The forms related to multi-criteria decision-making were designed by researchers according to the initial model, which were then completed by 15 experts. Also, 23 structural components of the model were prioritized and classified into four main categories (effective management, resources, infrastructure, and ideas). The categories were prioritized in terms of conceptual relevance as effective management, resources, infrastructure, and ideas, respectively. The results of this study can help to design temporary medical centers and manage biological emergencies more effectively in the future.