Investigating mode choice behavior during medical emergency in Bangladesh

Abstract

During a medical emergency, it is necessary to make multiple crucial, time-sensitive judgments. For example: the quickest way to nearby hospital, the safest way so that the patient is less affected by the road conditions. Bangladesh has seen a considerable increase in the number of motorized vehicles as a result of the country's recent economic expansion and the growing popularity of ride-sharing apps. There are currently more options than ever before for modes of transportation, yet during medical emergencies, individuals still choose to use unconventional modes of transportation. Previous research on Mode choices in Bangladesh during medical emergencies consists of geospatial aspects, situational analysis of rescue services, statistical analysis without socioeconomic and travel characteristics aspects. There is a gap in research regarding the socio demographic factors, the interaction of social and economic factors and how they affect each other. The following study addresses these factors and constructs relationships between them. In this study, we aimed to determine the factors that influence the method of transportation chosen and ways they relate to one another during a medical emergency situation. A causal relationship has been shown between factors representing socioeconomic and trip aspects that influence mode selection. Using Bayesian Belief Network, the network was created based on past research findings and extensive knowledge. PC technique based on conditional independence was used to build the Bayesian network. The Bayesian network was utilized to determine the posterior probability for each of the socio economic and trip characteristics variables. Results showed that if the accident severity is so fatal that there will be long term consequences, only then people prefer ambulances as mode of transport during medical emergencies. People tend to go for normal motorized vehicles when the education level of the one who brought it is Graduate or above and Patient’s Age is within Twenty to Sixty. This is because highly educated people understand that according to the patient’s mid age, a normal motorized vehicle would be the most suitable to seek medical attention within the shortest possible time frame. This study's findings can serve as a resource for policymakers and medical authorities to understand the current situation and improve upon it.