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Using Big Data to optimize dynamic ambulance availability maps: bridging the gap in emergency services Cover

Using Big Data to optimize dynamic ambulance availability maps: bridging the gap in emergency services

Open Access
|Jan 2026

Abstract

In this study, we explore the use of Big Data to dynamically optimize ambulance availability and response times in emergency medical services (EMS). Integrating Big Data principles with the Open Source Routing Machine (OSRM) routing engine, a novel algorithm was used to calculate travel times across an irregular grid, creating real-time, colour-coded time-accessibility maps. In contrast with traditional static models, this approach updates dynamically, accounting for road conditions, accidents and other disruptions to minimize delays. By excluding unusable segments from calculations, the algorithm ensures rapid recalculations, maintaining EMS coverage in evolving conditions. Testing showed significant improvements in response time estimation and resource allocation, particularly in urban environments with complex road networks. This real-time mapping tool offers EMS dispatchers an enhanced decision-support system, potentially saving lives by reducing ambulance response times and improving service availability across diverse areas.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/mgrsd-2025-0028 | Journal eISSN: 2084-6118 | Journal ISSN: 0867-6046
Language: English
Submitted on: Dec 18, 2024
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Accepted on: May 20, 2025
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Published on: Jan 14, 2026
In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services
Publication frequency: 4 issues per year

© 2026 Michał Lupa, Weronika Paterek, Mateusz Zawadzki, Michał Chromiak, Katarzyna Adamek, published by Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Warsaw
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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