Correlated GMM logistic regression models with time-dependent covariates and valid estimating equations

When analyzing longitudinal data it is essential to account both for the correlation inherent from the repeated measures of the responses as well as the correlation realized on account of the feedback created between the responses at a particular time and the predictors at other times. A generalized method of moments (GMM) for estimating the coefficients in longitudinal data is presented. The appropriate and valid estimating equations associated with the time-dependent covariates are identified, thus providing substantial gains in efficiency over generalized estimating equations (GEE) with the independent working correlation. Identifying the estimating equations for computation is of utmost importance. This paper provides a technique for identifying the relevant estimating equations through a general method of moments. I develop an approach that makes use of all the valid estimating equations necessary with each time-dependent and time-independent covariate. Moreover, my approach does not assume that feedback is always present over time, or present at the same degree. I fit the GMM correlated logistic regression model in SAS with PROC IML. I examine two datasets for illustrative purposes. I look at rehospitalization in a Medicare database. I revisit data regarding the relationship between the body mass index and future morbidity among children in the Philippines. These datasets allow us to compare my results with some earlier methods of analyses.