Logic model for chlamydia interventions at the state and local level

Background – The current STD intervention policy in Illinois is largely developed at the local level. The state health department (S-HD) provides testing and data resources, but community outreaches and interventions are driven by local health departments (L-HD). Varying levels of training, technical skill and resource availability create opportunities for ineffective/inefficient interventions.

Objective – The purpose of this study is to create a logic model, including Inputs, Processes and Outcomes sections, of the current intervention development, implementation and review process and offer an alternative. The objective is the development of a more cost-effective intervention strategy by comparing the existing policy and its limitations to a new policy and its potential benefits.

Methods – Two members of the S-HD STD staff, and thirteen STD staff members in L-HDs throughout Illinois were interviewed. The logic model for the current policy was created from these case studies. A comparison model was created for the proposed policy.

Results – The proposed model adds the element of Geographic Information System analysis and Census Bureau data from the S-HD to the Inputs section, an intervention evaluation for effectiveness to the processes, and a cost-effectiveness analysis to outcomes. With evaluations built into Processes and Outcomes in the proposed model, both individual interventions and the entire process may be evaluated for effectiveness.

Conclusions – The proposed model provides an experimental input for STD intervention and the means to evaluate its effectiveness and worth. This model may also be utilized for other infectious disease intervention development, and as an aid in conserving limited resources.