Utility-Based Multicriteria Model for Screening Patients under the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Decision Sciences
• Health Management
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has strained healthcare resources, increasing patient numbers with acute respiratory failure.
• This has led to a critical deficiency in essential health resources within medical facilities.
• Effective patient screening is vital for optimal resource allocation during health crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a utility-based multicriteria model for physician decision support in patient screening.
• To address the challenge of resource scarcity exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To aid in determining the most appropriate treatment setting for patients with suspected COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the principles of multi-attribute utility theory (MAUT).
• Developing a mathematical model to evaluate patient screening decision alternatives.
• Constructing and illustrating a decision information system (SIDTriagem) to implement the model.

Main Results:

• The proposed model provides a framework for evaluating three patient placement alternatives: intensive care unit (ICU), hospital ward, or home isolation.
• The model assists physicians in making informed screening decisions under resource constraints.
• The SIDTriagem system demonstrates the practical application of the mathematical model.

Conclusions:

• The MAUT-based model offers a structured approach to managing patient screening during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• This decision support tool can improve resource allocation efficiency in healthcare settings.
• The study highlights the importance of mathematical modeling in addressing public health challenges.