Kritchanchai D.Srinon R.Kietdumrongwong P.Jansuwan J.Phanuphak N.Chanpuypetch W.Mahidol University2024-06-252024-06-252024-06-30Heliyon Vol.10 No.12 (2024)24058440https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/98989This study investigates the enhancement of the home delivery distribution network for COVID-19 Home Isolation (HI) kits during the Delta variant outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand. It addresses challenges related to limited resources and delays in delivering HI kits, which can exacerbate symptoms and increase mortality rates. A k-means clustering approach is utilized to optimize the assignment of service areas within the COVID-19 HI program, while discrete event simulation (DES) evaluates potential changes in the home delivery logistics network. Real-world data from the peak outbreak is used to determine the optimal allocation of resources and propose a new logistics network based on proximity to patients' residences. Experimental results demonstrate a significant 44.29% improvement in overall performance and a substantial 40.80% decrease in maximum service time. The findings offer theoretical and managerial implications for effective HI management, supporting practitioners and policymakers in mitigating the impact of future outbreaks.MultidisciplinaryArticleSCOPUS10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e331772-s2.0-85196259226