The impact of the public hearing process on the HSP and AIP of an HSA: an evaluative case study

This paper evaluates the public hearing process and discusses some implications and ramifications of a public hearing process within one health systems agency (HSA). Standards for a public hearing are outlined. The standards include the utilization of logic and simple language in the preparation of the proposal, the delineation of public consent and public opinion, clarification of the intent of the public hearing, the preparation of the public for the hearing, and the post-hearing work program. This evaluative study indicates that the public hearing process had minimal direct effect on the HSP and AIP but substantial indirect effects. Indirect effects included influencing the content and issues, defining linkages, delineation of public consent and public opinion, and heightening a sense of political feasibility and public credibility. Equally important was the staff awareness of the political-social climate of the region, the governing board and the DHEW Guidelines. Recommendations for HSAs are also developed. These include the development of a responsive mechanism, the "stimulation" of proponents, education on the nature of the public hearing process, and clarification of the nature of the public interest.