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arXiv · 1701.02201

A fast algorithm for maximal propensity score matching

Pavel S. Ruzankin
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Abstract

We present a new algorithm which detects the maximal possible number of matched disjoint pairs satisfying a given caliper when a bipartite matching is done with respect to a scalar index (e.g., propensity score), and constructs a corresponding matching. Variable width calipers are compatible with the technique, provided that the width of the caliper is a Lipschitz function of the index. If the observations are ordered with respect to the index then the matching needs $O(N)$ operations, where $N$ is the total number of subjects to be matched. The case of 1-to-$n$ matching is also considered. We offer also a new fast algorithm for optimal complete one-to-one matching on a scalar index when the treatment and control groups are of the same size. This allows us to improve greedy nearest neighbor matching on a scalar index. Keywords: propensity score matching, nearest neighbor matching, matching with caliper, variable width caliper.

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Pavel S. Ruzankin. 2017-01-09. A fast algorithm for maximal propensity score matching. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11009-019-09718-4

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