Application of a conceptual framework for the modelling and execution of clinical guidelines as networks of concurrent processes

We present a conceptual framework for modelling clinical guidelines as networks of concurrent processes. This enables the guideline to be partitioned and distributed at run-time across a knowledge-based telemedicine system, which is distributed by definition but whose exact physical configuration can only be determined after design-time by considering, amongst other factors, the individual patient's needs. The framework was applied to model a clinical guideline for gestational diabetes mellitus and to derive a prototype that executes the guideline on a smartphone. The framework is shown to support the full development trajectory of a decision support system, including analysis, design and implementation