Measuring the impact of a web-based data query system: Rhode Island

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Annie Gjelsvik, PhD, Center for Health Data and Analysis, Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Room 103 Cannon Building, Providence, RI 02908, 401-222-5119, AnnieG@doh.state.ri.us

The Rhode Island Department of Health's HEALTH Web Query System, released in September 2005, allows health professionals and community leaders to create custom tables and graphs of the state's public health data to inform planning and policy development. This web-based data query system (WDQS) provides tools for improving the health of Rhode Islanders through data-driven programs and policies.

The RI HEALTH Web Query System is a relatively new WDQS and is still setting up the process for monitoring impact. The presentation will describe the evaluation methods for the WDQS. Examples of components of the evaluation system include web logs, user surveys, target audience surveys, and anecdotal evidence. Each of these components provides on a partial picture of the impact of the system. Issues and experiences in setting up and evaluation system for a WDQS will be discussed

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

1)Describe the components of an evaluation method for a WDQS
2)Understand the issues and challenges involved in evaluating a WDQS
3)Describe the early impact of a WDQS in one state (RI).

Keywords: Information Technology, Evaluation

Related Web page: www.health.ri.gov/webquery/index.html

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation

Where Data Meets Practice: Evaluating Community Health Assessments

The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA