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Developing an outcomes management program in a public health department
Karen A Monsen1, Karen S Martin
1Washington County Public Health and Environment, Stillwater, Minn., USA. karen.monsen@co.washington.mn.us
Outcomes Management
|April 16, 2002
Summary
A local health department successfully implemented an outcomes management program using collaborative decision-making and staff training. This initiative now yields reliable quantitative data for public health initiatives.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Informatics
- Program Management
Background:
- Public health departments require robust data for effective program evaluation.
- Implementing comprehensive outcomes management is crucial for demonstrating impact.
- Challenges exist in data collection and utilization within public health settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the planning and implementation of a 5-year outcomes management program.
- To highlight critical components for successful program development.
- To demonstrate the generation of reliable quantitative outcomes data.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year comprehensive outcomes management program was developed and implemented.
- Key strategies included leadership commitment, collaborative software selection, staff training, and automation.
- Ongoing program evaluation was integral to the process.
Main Results:
- The program successfully established a system for collecting quantitative outcomes data.
- Reliable and valid data are now available for departmental use.
- The implementation fostered collaboration and enhanced staff skills in documentation.
Conclusions:
- A structured, long-term approach is effective for developing outcomes management programs.
- Leadership support and staff engagement are vital for success.
- The program provides valuable data for improving public health services.