Types of Evaluation in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Programs

Several types of evaluation designs and frameworks can be used to assess health promotion and disease prevention programs. Each design and framework uses different approaches for assessment, data collection, and measurement. The types of frameworks that have been used for rural health promotion and disease prevention program evaluations include:

• Formative evaluation: Formative evaluation occurs during program development and implementation. It provides information on achieving program goals or improving your program.
• Process evaluation: Process evaluation is a type of formative evaluation that assesses the type, quantity, and quality of program activities or services.
• Outcome evaluation: Outcome evaluation can focus on short- and long-term program objectives. Appropriate measures demonstrate changes in health conditions, quality of life, and behaviors.
• Impact evaluation: Impact evaluation assesses a program's effect on participants. Appropriate measures include changes in awareness, knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and/or skills.

For detailed information on the different evaluation designs and frameworks, see Evaluation Design in the Rural Community Health Toolkit.

Resources to Learn More

The Evaluation Center
Website
Offers research and resources to promote effective health promotion and disease prevention evaluation using publications, checklists, and presentations related to conducting evaluations.
Organization(s): Western Michigan University

Getting To Outcomes: Improving Community-Based Prevention
Website
Links to a toolkit, information, manuals, and other resources related to help communities with the implementation and evaluation of their prevention programs.
Organization(s): RAND Health