Using agent-based methodologies in healthcare information systems

Abstract

This paper carries out a comparative analysis to determine the advantages and the stages of two agent-based methodologies: Multi-agent Systems Engineering (MaSE) methodology, which is designed specifically for an agent-based and complete lifecycle approach, while also being appropriate for understanding and developing complex open systems; Agent Systems Methodology (ASEME) suggests a modular Multi-Agent System (MAS) development approach and uses the concept of intra-agent control. We also examine the strengths and weaknesses of these methodologies and the dependencies between their models and their processes. Both methodologies are applied to develop The Guardian Angle: Patient-Centered Health Information System (GA: PCHIS), which is an example of agent-based applications used to improve health care information systems.