HELP-based decision analysis applied to coronary artery disease

✍ Scribed by Randy Waki; Paul D. Clayton; Robert L. Jensen; Frank G. Yanowitz; Harold V. Liddle

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 1982
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 984 KB
• Volume: 15
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0010-4809
• DOI: 10.1016/0010-4809(82)90036-2

✦ Synopsis

Decision analysis is an explicit, quantitative approach to making choices under uncertainty. A problem is broken into component modules and structured into a decision tree which attempts to account for all possible outcomes. Outcomes are assigned probabilities of occurring and utilities (measure of relative worth). The alternative which leads to the highest expected utility becomes the preferred choice for a decision maker. Application of decision theory to the decisions a physician must make in treating patients with suspected coronary artery disease appears fruitful because this approach identifies which factors are important. Decision analysis can be conveniently implemented using the HELP system for medical decision making.