The application of process mining for clinical pathways: a systematic literature review protocol

Process mining is increasingly utilized in healthcare to analyze and optimize clinical pathways, offering opportunities to enhance care efficiency and patient outcomes. This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on the application of process mining to clinical pathways, focusing on its impact on patient outcomes, operational efficiency, and pathway structure.

A systematic search will be conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ABI/Inform for studies published from 1999 onward. Eligible studies include observational studies, case reports, conference papers, and meta-analyses focusing on process mining applications to clinical pathways in hospital settings. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, extract data, and assess quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data will be extracted considering several pieces of information such as clinical pathway, settings, health outcomes, costs, and indicators, and will be presented in a structured format. A narrative synthesis will be conducted, and findings will be categorized and thematically analysed where possible. Disagreements will be resolved through consensus. Primary outcomes include improvements in care efficiency, patient flow, compliance with clinical guidelines, and reduction in delays or resource use. Secondary outcomes include challenges and limitations in applying process mining techniques.

This review will provide a comprehensive synthesis of process mining applications in clinical pathways, highlighting successful strategies, key challenges, and future opportunities. Findings will inform healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers on leveraging process mining to optimize clinical care.

PROSPERO CRD42024584540.