Healthcare Evaluation

摘要

The landscape of healthcare delivery is continuously evolving. An appropriate use of research and evaluation is key when assessing not only the need for change but also when instituting one’s innovative endeavors. Integrated care is a relatively new concept and this poster highlights how the process of evaluation helps us to make decisions as to how well a particular practice is working and whether or not changes or improvements are required (Polit D & Beck C. 2007). Evaluation is a key component of the delivery of integrated healthcare as it fosters transparency and accountability. Let us look at an overview of the commonly used models of evaluation in healthcare today and the strengths and weakness of each method. E.g Logic model, CIPP, Kirkpatricks model and REAM model. There are several models of evaluation available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The specific model chosen should reflect the nature of the organisation and the intervention being evaluated. It is evident that research and evaluation are of the utmost importance and will continue to be a cornerstone of both modern day evidence based medicine and the delivery of integrated healthcare. Evaluation models are useful tools when translating research into practice. This process is of benefit to researchers, practitioners, decision makers, patients and society as it ensures a critical appraisal of a particular healthcare program or initiative. More research is needed into evaluation models that would enable a thorough but time efficient assessment of a particular program or intervention.