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Developing a Mathematical Model for Optimum Drug (Vaccine)Distribution of Infectious Diseases in Epidemic Conditions: The COVID-19 Case Study

Khodaee, Vahid | 2022

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  1. Type of Document: M.Sc. Thesis
  2. Language: Farsi
  3. Document No: 54787 (01)
  4. University: Sharif University of Technology
  5. Department: Industrial Engineering
  6. Advisor(s): Haji, Alireza; Kayvanfar, Vahid
  7. Abstract:
  8. This study aims to develop a mathematical model for the equitable distribution of the drug or vaccine needed in a critical situation like the COVID-19 epidemic. This study has taken a unique look at the human dimension of social issues such as the cost of deprivation and equality. It seeks to ensure a fair vaccine distribution among priority groups and affected areas. Thus, it has developed a mixed-integer programming model to minimize distribution costs in the cold chain to reduce the social costs of the crisis while reducing logistical costs such as transportation, scarcity, and maintenance costs. To do this, we considered a three-tier chain consisting of a supplier, distributor, and affected areas as the final consumer, using actual data extracted from the vaccine distribution program in Europe. Third-party distribution companies will be responsible for distribution in the second phase. The results show that through an appropriate planning in the supply chain, one can minimize all incurred logistics and social costs. Taking the deprivation cost into account, as a social cost term, governments and managers can better understand the importance of equity and focus on reducing it, through fair distribution. Also, some conducted sensitivity analyses demonstrate that how total cost and deprivation cost affect over each other, helping the mangers to establish a trade-off between them. This study presents social concepts in a humanitarian cold supply chain in the Covid-19 epidemic for the first time. It considers the logistical costs for effective vaccine distribution, which can be a suitable strategic tool for managers of public and international health organizations
  9. Keywords:
  10. Vaccine ; COVID-19 ; Mixed Integer Programming ; Equity ; Third Party Logistics ; Cold Supply Chain ; Deprivation Cost

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