An assessment of diagnostic efficiency by Taguchi/DEA methods

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to propose a new, objective and consistent method for the calculation of the diagnostic efficiency in medical applications.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a hybrid method of Taguchi and DEA is proposed. This method reflects the diversity of inputs and outputs by incorporating the stepwise application of sensitivity, specificity, leveling threshold, and efficiency score. A hypothetical case study is given which involves eight readers of X‐ray films in clinical radiology.

Findings

The selected pairs of sensitivity and specificity yielded two efficient readers. After super efficiency analysis, Reader 6 is found to be the most efficient reader.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new, objective and consistent method for the calculation of the diagnostic efficiency in medical applications.

Citation

Tolga Taner, M. and Sezen, B. (2009), "An assessment of diagnostic efficiency by Taguchi/DEA methods", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 93-98. https://doi.org/10.1108/09526860910927989