Optimization of Search Programs in a Given Population
Richard Y. Yeh · ScholarSpace (University of Hawaii at Manoa) · 2014
This report discusses optimal methods of search for physical disabilities in a given population. The study was motivated by a practical problem connected with school-health programs. Although it is primarily directed to solution of this specific problem, the mathematical model developed and the method of solution can be extended to more general problems. Consider a program for detection (for effective treatment) of physical disorders (such as hearing disabilities) in school-age children. Evidently, this involves a repetitive search within the student body for individuals inflicted with the physical disabilities of concern. This repetitive search is called a Search Program. As a search program consists of many constituents, the optimization of such involves the finding of a proper mix of these constituents such that the search program is optimal in some sense.