Analysis of Site Selection of Medical Centers from a Passive Defense Perspective in Omidiyeh City, Iran

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONMedical centers are directly involved in health of the individual and society and quick and cheap access to these centers in urban communities is of great importance. In providing urban services, considering some principles, including the principles of passive defense in structures, increases the efficiency of the urban system in the area of provision of better services to citizens and also the development of a sustainable city. This study aims to address the spatial analysis of medical centers in Omidiyeh City, Iran, based on the passive defense principles.METHODSThe present study was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of nature and method. The data collection method included the library and survey studies. The technique used in the analysis was also the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) based on the experts’ opinion and a pairwise comparison between the indicators in the geographic information system (GIS).FINDINGSCombining the layers of population density, land use, communication network, medical centers, distance from industrial centers, and distance from fire stations as well as creating the final map, a suitable area for medical centers was identified.CONCLUSIONThe study findings indicated that the distribution pattern of the health centers in Omidiyeh is not in accordance with the principles and criteria of passive defense and the establishment of new urban medical centers using the GIS capabilities in the city can be useful in providing services to citizens.