Applied Mathematics and Nonlinear Sciences
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Journal

Applied Mathematics and Nonlinear Sciences


Volume
& Issue

Volume 9, Issue 1


Published
on

September 3, 2024


Pages


DOI

Article

Markov Decision Process Modeling in Pharmacoeconomics with Application Perspectives

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Authors

Yan Xu Affiliation:
Zhejiang Pharmaceutical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315599, China.
and Qide Wu Affiliation:
Zhejiang Pharmaceutical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315599, China.


Abstract

Aiming at the complexity of the problems of risk prediction and drug cost and utility in pharmacoeconomics, this paper proposes the application of the Markov decision model to pharmacoeconomics, and based on this, the solution method of pharmacoeconomic optimization is proposed. After summarizing the advantages and purposes of Markov’s application in pharmacoeconomics, the Markov decision process is established from four aspects: state of the world, action, transfer, and benefit function. The Lagrangian function is constructed with the expectation of the maximum long-term drug benefit. The solution problem is converted into an unconstrained problem, and the objective solution is carried out using reinforcement learning methods. The improved algorithm’s convergence is examined. It is found that the optimized Markov decision-making algorithm obtains a cumulative payoff value of 85, which is 25 higher than that obtained by the Markov decision-making algorithm, and the Markov decision-making model is more effective in evaluating the economics of drugs or treatment measures. Evaluating the long-term benefits of therapeutic measures on cost, survival, and quality of life in sick populations has promising applications as well.


Keywords

Markov decision process, Benefit function, Lagrangian function, Reinforcement learning, Pharmacoeconomics, 91B52


Citation

Xu, Y. & Wu, Q. (2024). Markov decision process modeling in pharmacoeconomics with application perspectives. Applied Mathematics and Nonlinear Sciences, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.2478/amns-2024-2458

Published by: Engineering Journals

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