Emergency resource allocation considering the heterogeneity of affected areas during the COVID-19 pandemic in China

This study addresses the challenge of equitable, efficient, and economical allocation of emergency resources during the COVID-19 pandemic in China, focusing on the heterogeneity of affected areas. A multi-period optimal allocation model is proposed, incorporating factors like disaster coefficient and demand urgency. A simulation study using Hubei Province as a case study verifies the model's effectiveness, demonstrating that considering heterogeneity minimizes negative impacts, particularly in the early stages of the pandemic. The model optimizes resource allocation across time, cost, and loss criteria, aligning with real-world needs. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers in developing effective emergency resource allocation strategies for future public health crises.

Yanyan Wang, Mingshu Lyu, Baiqing Sun