Workflow modelling of clinical pathway based on modular temporised coloured petri net with changeable structure

Abstract

Generally, there is a 'hard' problem of Clinical Pathway (CP) workflow modelling with uncertainty variances. Therefore, a CP workflow modelling method based on Modular Temporised Coloured Petri Net with changeable structure is proposed, in which the trigger mechanism of activity is introduced, and the dynamics of the treatment process along with 'time' for patients can be modelled by the transition firing and connections amongst them. With the predefined arc expressions, the automatic routes of the CP can be realised. Moreover, by using the two structural change algorithms, the CP workflow model can be dynamically updated. A case study on osteosarcoma CP workflow modelling is constructed and analysed by applying the proposed modelling method. The result shows that the built entire osteosarcoma CP model is more manageable and maintainable. Moreover, after a little modification, the model can also be applicable to other CPs workflow modelling (such as caesarean section CP).