Epidemiologic programs for computers and calculators. Decision-tree analysis using a microcomputer.

Abstract

Decision analysis using decision trees enables the medical decision maker to simplify and solve complex problems. The technique, however, becomes cumbersome when the decision maker attempts to perform sensitivity analysis on the problem. This paper describes a computer program, written in PASCAL, to construct, modify, and perform deterministic and stochastic simulations and risk analysis on a hypothetical, decision-analysis problem. The deterministic version can be run on microcomputers with CP/M, PC-DOS, or MS-DOS operating systems, and the deterministic/stochastic version requires a PC-DOS or MS-DOS operating system.