In this work, we propose a novel joint frailty model assuming bivariate discretely- distributed non-parametric frailties, with an unknown finite number of mass points. This ap- proach allows to... Show moreIn this work, we propose a novel joint frailty model assuming bivariate discretely- distributed non-parametric frailties, with an unknown finite number of mass points. This ap- proach allows to detect a latent structure among subjects, clustering them in sub-populations where individuals are characterized by a common frailty value. Our method can be interpreted as an unsupervised classification tool and motivates further investigation into the reasons for similarities within the clustered subjects and dissimilarities across the clusters. This work is motivated by a study of patients with Heart Failure (HF) undergoing ACE inhibitors treatment in the Lombardia region of Italy. Recurrent events of interest are hos- pitalizations due to HF and terminal event is death for any cause. Show less
