Objectives: This panelist's presentation will focus on the challenges facing social work managers in healthcare and identify ways in which they can be more effective. Trends, barriers and opportunities for social workers will be presented with specific emphasis on utilizing outcomes program evaluation as a strategy for social work inclusion in the healthcare arena.
Methods: The panel member will provide an overview of types of outcomes program evaluation; provide information on the systems and resources needed for implementing program evaluations; describe the process of conducting program evaluations; and propose specific social work measures that can be included in program evaluations. Special attention will be given to meeting reimbursement and organizational demands.
Results: Attendees will be informed of: (1) experimental, performance audits and decision-oriented program evaluation principles and their uses; (2) issues related to program evaluation planning and designing, specifically, needs assessment and setting measurable objectives; (3) means to building a management information system to track the intervetnion; and (4) means for monitoring and measuring program outcomes. Utilizing program evaluation for existing organizational concerns will be discussed: using program evaluation as a tool for utilization review, enhancing continuous quality improvement and protecting existing programs.
Conclusion: This panel presentation will provide social work managers an opportunity to focus on and expand their knowledge in outcomes program evaluation issues, which can enhance their strategic planning and program effectiveness.
Learning Objectives: 1. Attendees will be familiar with and understand the different uses of experimental, performance audits and decision-oriented outcomes program evaluations. 2. Attendees will identify ways to conduct needs assessment and recognize ways to set measurable objectives 3. Attendees will understand issues related to building a management information system for tracking outcomes 4. Attendees will identify measurement tools and means for monitoring program outcomes 5. Attendees will recognize ways to strategically use program evaluations within their organization
Keywords: Performance Measurement, Management and Sustainability
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.