Abstract:
The results of an observational study aimed at a formal assessment of clinicians’
test-selection behavior are presented. We first make a proposal for diagnostic test
usage in the latter phases of jaundice diagnosis. Next we compute a probabilistic
estimate of the patient diagnosis, based on the COMIK algorithm. From the proposal
and the probabilistic estimate we can predict the “test-selection behavior” of clinicians.
The assessment follows from a tabulation of the predicted behavior against the tests
selected by clinicians. It is shown that for most tests, the predictions are consistent
with the observed test-selection behavior at a statistically significant level. Discussions
of discrepancies between prediction and observation, and reasons for deviations from
general guidelines, provide new dimensions for medical education. The methodology
applied is a useful tool to improve medical care for the jaundiced patient.
Key-Words
Computer-assisted Diagnosis - Jaundice - Medical Education - Technology Assessment
