Evaluating and improving healthcare through disease modeling and decision analyses
Welcome to the Decision Modeling Center!
We contribute to the evaluation and optimization of healthcare and prevention by developing disease models, performing decision analyses and developing new statistical methodology.
As part of the Department of Epidemiology and Data Science of the Amsterdam UMC, we conduct research in collaboration with clinicians and other researchers, inside and outside of our institution. In addition, we perform evaluations on behalf of the Dutch and European governments.
We carry out research covering each step of the medical decision process
We carry out research covering each step of the medical decision process
Decision problem
Identifying and defining the specific problem or question at hand involves clearly outlining the decision that needs to be made, including the objectives and criteria for evaluating potential solutions.
Data collection
Data collection is the process of gathering and measuring variables of interest. In our analysis, we make use of data collected from randomised or observational trials, national screening programs and the Netherlands Cancer Registry.
Synthesize information
Once data is collected, it needs to be organized and analyzed to derive meaningful insights. We synthesize information from various sources, such as clinical trials, patient records, and literature reviews, to form a comprehensive understanding of the problem and potential solutions.
Cost-effectiveness analysis
In cost-effectiveness analysis, we compare the costs and the health impact of different interventions affecting the same health outcome by estimating how much it costs to gain one unit of a health outcome, e.g., a life year gained or death prevented.
Supporting models and algorithms
Complex medical decision making often requires the use of models and algorithms to aid in analysis and prediction. This step involves developing or utilizing mathematical and computational tools to simulate different scenarios, assess probabilities, and optimize decision outcomes.
Informing policy makers
Effective communication of findings and recommendations is essential for influencing healthcare policies and practices. We present evidence-based insights to policymakers, healthcare administrators, and other stakeholders to inform decision-making at the institutional, regional, or national level.
" Results of a modeling study will only be endorsed when you closely collaborate with clinical practice and other stakeholders"
Read here the full interviewWhat are we currently working on?
Within the Decision Modeling Center, our focus lies on the development of disease models and medical decision analysis. Important diseases that we work on are colorectal and cervical cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, covering the spectrum from screening to treatment and follow-up. We develop statistical methodology - in particular multi-state and survival-time methods - that can be used to inform our models.
Visit our project page for detailed information on our ongoing initiatives and the specific aspects of our work.
