Application of multidimensional utility theory in determining optimal test-treatment strategies for streptococcal sore throat and rheumatic fever
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Authors
Giauque, William Cannon
Pebbles, Thomas C.
Subjects
Multidimensional utility theory
Tradeoffs under uncertainty
Multiple decision criteria
Tradeoffs under uncertainty
Multiple decision criteria
Advisors
Date of Issue
1974-10
Date
1974-10
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
en_US
Abstract
In most decision problems there is a need to consider both multiple objective function and uncertainty. Von Neumann-Morganstern utility theory offers a rigorous methodology for defining objectiv3es under uncertainty, and there is nothing in the theory which precludes construction and use of multiple criteria utility functions. For some types of problems feasible methods now exist for overcoming the severe practical problems of assessing such functions. This paper describes the analysis of a medical problem, the determination of optimal test and treatment strategies for streptococcal sore throat and rheumatic fever, in which the formulation, verification, and assessment of a multidimensional utility function was a critical part of the analysis. Comments on the usefulness of the procedure are made, and some potential future applications summarized. A theorem on the assessability of parameters in the utility function is also proven. (Author)
Type
Technical Report
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
NPS-55G174101
Sponsors
supported in part by the Foundation
Research Program of the Naval Postgraduate School with funds provided by
the Chief of Naval Research.
Funder
Supported in part by the Office of Naval Research Foundation Research
Program, Naval Postgraduate School.
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.