Dual-Level Location Suitability Index for Optimum Site Selection

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic has spread rapidly affecting the entire world. During the fight against the pandemic, hospitals are insufficient to meet the needs. This study aims to set the basis for optimal site selection of quarantine hospitals. Further, to determine the critical factors influencing this selection. The Dual Level Location Suitability Index (DLLSI) proposed methodology provides decision maker with the optimal city and the optimal sites in the selected city for hospital construction. Analytical Hierarchy Process approach is implemented as a part of this study with 14 criteria used to evaluate the alternatives. Safety, accessibility, and availability criteria are also influencing the site selection. The results of DLLSI proposed methodology implementation show the optimal city and the optimal potential sites. It is observed that potential optimal sites located in optimal city. This is considered as self-evaluation, one of the contributions for the proposed methodology. Furthermore, the results of the proposed model are robust, realistic, and supportive for decision makers.