Application of Concepts of the Analytic Hierarchy Process in Decision-Making

Abstract

The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) is one of the multi-criteria methods with tools that are effective for decision-making in complementary or alternative medicine (CAM). This approach, in combination with other available methods, such as the Utrecht Method, allows medical professionals and patients themselves to take a balanced choice of special treatment and health control. This is particularly important for pregnant women who suffer from nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP). The mechanisms of toxicosis occur, and the way of treatment have certain uncertainties. The decision-making process for therapeutic care must consider several factors, the determination of which is the result of collaboration between the patient and the healthcare provider. This paper presents the results of a decision-making study regarding the use of the ginger medicinal plant in helping a woman with NVP symptoms. The research was conducted using the original questionnaire according to the methodology proposed by the developers of the Utrecht Method. The chosen respondents were healthcare professionals with experience in treating NVP and pregnant women. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) capabilities in decision-making were shown in an example of analyzing the benefits, risks, and side effects of using ginger during pregnancy. The combination of two methodological approaches allowed to successfully connect the proven facts of using CAM therapy with the subjective assessment of all stakeholders. The study demonstrates that this approach successfully uses decision-making by structuring hierarchical decision elements and weighing the criteria involved in the decision-making issue. The article examines the practicality and effectiveness of using AHP when making decisions regarding the treatment and improvement of the condition of pregnant women with NVP, and summarizes the quantitative and qualitative indicators of the effectiveness of this method. The presented combination of two methodological approaches in decision-making allows for choosing an optimized medical strategy for supporting pregnant women through CAM therapy.