Policy and funding decisions at the federal level are increasingly being determined by what outcomes are realized by programs. The federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), HIV/AIDS Bureau (HRSA/HAB) has therefore identified evaluation of program outcomes as one the priorities for HIV/AIDS care programs funded under the Ryan White CARE Act, which provides resources for low income/under-insured individuals living with HIV disease. CARE Act HIV/AIDS care programs need to document how their programs have improved client outcomes such as increased access to quality care and improved health outcomes. In order to do so, programs need to have in place quality assurance and evaluation mechanisms to assess the effect of CARE Act resources. To assist programs to conduct outcomes evaluation, HRSA/HAB has undertaken multiple technical assistance efforts, including development of a guide on outcomes evaluation; studies; and research and demonstration projects.
Learning Objectives: This session will help participants: Define outcomes evaluation terms, including process, outputs, and outcomes. Understand how outcomes evaluation relates to other types of evaluation (e.g., process, formative) and how these other types are used in outcomes evaluation. Recognize various methods of collecting outcomes data (e.g., medical records extraction; client level data). Apply key steps in conducting outcomes evaluation (e.g., developing measurable program objectives; identifying outcomes, outcomes indicators, and data sources; gaining support from providers; designing an outcomes evaluation plan; developing data collection methods such as client chart reviews). Understand the logic model approach to conducting outcomes evaluation
Keywords: Evaluation, Outcome Measures
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Health Resources and Services Administration, HIV/AIDS Bureau Technical Assistance Guide on Outcomes Evaluation
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.