A stochastic analysis of medical misdiagnosis in children
Date
2015
Authors
Mugwe, Teresia Wanjiku
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
Medical misdiagnosis has been an issue on the rise in the past decade with an observed increase in medical malpractice cases. In Africa, most malpractice cases are due to negligence and misdiagnosis, with the cases of misdiagnosis rising. Children are seen to suffer more from medical misdiagnosis as compared to adults, especially those under five. A stochastic analysis of the transition of children from different states confirms that there is a high transition to a state of misdiagnosis. Cases in Africa are much higher than the rest of the world as pediatric technology is not as advanced. Analysis of data confirms the problem is dire in Africa as compared to the rest of the world, a factor which can be attributed to the lack of pediatric expertise and modem technology in the medical field . The study is to enhance the economic development in Africa with focus in medical sector. This will curb the high infant mortality rate problem and decrease the cases of medical misdiagnosis.
Description
Keywords
Markov chain, Transition Matrix, misdiagnosis