Title: RE-PLAN: a computational framework for REsponse PLan ANalysis

Authors: Tamara Schneider, Armin R. Mikler

Addresses: Center for Computational Epidemiology and Response Analysis, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle No. 311366, Denton, Texas 76203-5017, USA. ' Center for Computational Epidemiology and Response Analysis, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle No. 311366, Denton, Texas 76203-5017, USA

Abstract: Lurking pandemics and ever-present bio-terror threats necessitate the design of contingency plans that address these bio-emergencies. Continuous changes in regional demographics and transportation infrastructure imply that response plans are not static, but undergo frequent revisions. These plans outline specific response scenarios attempting to meet federal mandated performance criteria. However, there are only few computational tools available that can aid in the analysis of response plan performance. REsponse PLan ANalyser (RE-PLAN), a computational framework with GIS capabilities, facilitates the analysis of response plans and their corresponding placement of resources. This paper introduces the RE-PLAN architecture and its underlying methodologies. The principles of plan analysis are demonstrated by applying RE-PLAN to a synthetically generated geographic region and the results of each analysis step are shown.

Keywords: epidemics; pandemics; biological threats; emergency preparedness; emergency planning; public health preparedness; response analysis; synthetic geographies; synthetic populations; emergency response; emergency management; bioterrorism.

DOI: 10.1504/IJFIPM.2010.037149

International Journal of Functional Informatics and Personalised Medicine, 2010 Vol.3 No.2, pp.103 - 121

Published online: 29 Nov 2010 *

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