Decision analysis and dental malpractice suits.

This article introduced the reader to the basic notions of decision analysis. The generic structure of decisions was introduced by means of an example. Using the concepts for analyzing malpractice suits was then discussed in the context of a hypothetical problem. Two points are worth noting: (1) decision analysis constructs have wide applicability, since the ingredients germane to decision problems across disciplines have important similarities; and (2) the purpose of engaging in formal analysis is to enhance understanding and description of a problem and to aid the decision-maker to be more explicit and more comprehensive in his search for a preferred course of action. Undoubtedly the article has raised some questions in the minds of the readers. In an elementary exposition such as this it is difficult to do full justice to the topics of decision analysis. The following references may be of interest.