In March 1998 the Boston EMA began a process of outcome measures evaluation for RWCA Title I programs. Draft measures were designed and submitted to the contractor, modifications made and a pilot test done. Measures were reevaluatedand modified to more accurately assess program performance. Each set of measures was designed for the specific type of service being evaluated. Since there is only one dental program in the EMA, our measures are unique. The actual evaluation was for the time period March 1,1999 - August 31,1999. Three outcome measures were selected, two quality and one cost. Data was collected, analyzed, and a report prepared. 164 new clients enrolled in this time period and were the basis for the evaluation. Results of this evaluation will be presented, their effectiveness discussed, and suggestions for the future proposed. Data is not generalizable to all dental programs, however the measures may be useful as outcomes evaluation becomes mandatory for all RWCA programs. Boston EMA began the process early to design, test, and evaluate the measures prior to their becoming mandatory. This "jump start" gave us the opportunity to develop measures indicative of the unique nature of the program and helpful to internal evaluation.
Learning Objectives: 1. Define outcome measures evaluation. 2. Discuss use of outcome measures for RWCA program
Keywords: Access, HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
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.