Conference PaperPlanning the Trauma Hospital Network Expansion to Increase Access in Rural CommunitiesHolly, Streber; Streber, Kayla; Van, Mary; Pérez, EduardoEllis, K.; Ferrell, W.; Knapp J.Trauma care services are a vital part of all healthcare-based networks as timely accessibility is important for citizens. Trauma care access is even more relevant when unexpected events such as the COVID-19 pandemic overload the capacity of hospitals. Research literature has highlighted that access to trauma care is not equal for all populations, especially when comparing rural and urban groups. In this research we present a decision-making model for the expansion of a trauma hospital network by considering the demand for services of rural communities. The decision making model provides recommendations in terms of where to place additional aeromedical facilities and where to locate additional trauma hospitals. A case study is presented for the state of Texas, where a sensitivity analysis was conducted to consider changes in demand, cost, and the total number of facilities allowed in the network. The results show that the location of new facilities is sensitive to the expected service demand and the maximum number of facilities allowed in the network.2022-04-0110338256Proceedings of the IISE Annual Conference & Expo 2022https://doi.org/2030511National Science Foundation