Calculating of the optimal number and location of blood supply centers in the case of East Azerbaijan

One of the key issues in determining location for blood supply center is the design of blood supply chain. To minimize the cost of blood supply, the donors should be reached easily with appropriate distribution of blood and blood products to the hospital. The aim of this study was calculating of the optimal number and location of different various types blood supply centers Methods: This was mathematical modeling study of potential donors in the East Azerbaijan Province cities. The cost of construction and operation for each facility was calculated based on the activities and after which a mathematical model has been used. Blood supply centers was included fixed centers and mobile teams. Data collection for this study was obtained in March 2014 to September 2015. The mathematical model developed by software 24.1 GAMS Results: The location of Blood Transfusion Centers in the city of Tabriz in East Azerbaijan province were showed that optimal location for constructing of preparation and processing centers of East Azerbaijan province are cities of Maragheh, Mianeh and Marand. Establishing fixed blood supply centers in the cities of Ahar, Tabriz, Shabestar, Azarshahr, Ajab Shir, Bonab, Malekan, Bostanabad and Sarab had the lowest opening and transportation cost. Therefore, optimal situation for mobile teams were Julfa,Varzaqan,Khodaafarin, Harris, Tabriz, Osku, Maragheh, Khoda Afarin, Hashtrud and Charuymaq. Conclusion: The appropriate allocation of satellite, fixed centers and mobile teams for the cities of East Azerbaijan reduces the cost of supplying blood. Observing this can reduce transportation costs. Therefore, the blood transfusion organization should choose the places to set up the blood supply centers to reduce its costs.