Deep Learning Architectures for Vector Representations of Patients and Exploring Predictors of 30-Day Hospital Readmissions in Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions

This empirical study of a complex group of patients with multiple chronic concurrent conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular and kidney diseases) explores the use of deep learning architectures to identify patient segments and contributing factors to 30-day hospital readmissions. We implemented Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) on sequential Electronic Health Records data at the Danderyd Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden. Three distinct sub-types of patient groups were identified: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kidney transplant, and paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia. The CNN learned about vector representations of patients, but the RNN was better able to identify and quantify key contributors to readmission such as myocardial infarction and echocardiography. We suggest that vector representations of patients with deep learning should precede predictive modeling of complex patients. The approach also has potential implications for supporting care delivery, care design and clinical decision-making.