Framework and methodology for evaluating mental health policy and plans

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy Analysis
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Effective mental health service planning and delivery rely on robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E).
• M&E of mental health policies and plans has historically received limited attention despite its importance.
• Existing M&E approaches often lack specific frameworks for policy and plan assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a structured approach developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for monitoring and evaluating mental health policies and plans.
• To provide a framework adaptable for M&E across various health policy domains.
• To address challenges in objectively assessing policy documents and implementation.

Main Methods:

• Outlined a four-area critical assessment: policy/plan evaluation, strategic plan monitoring, implementation evaluation, and objective achievement assessment.
• Introduced two WHO checklists for evaluating process, content, and operational aspects of policies and plans.
• Described a five-step guidance process for conducting comprehensive policy and plan evaluations.

Main Results:

• The WHO approach provides a systematic method for assessing mental health policies and plans.
• Checklists and guidance offer practical tools for objective evaluation and monitoring.
• The framework is adaptable for use in diverse health policy contexts.

Conclusions:

• The presented WHO approach enhances the capacity for rigorous M&E of mental health policies and plans.
• Implementing this framework can lead to more effective policy development and service delivery.
• This methodology supports evidence-based decision-making in public health policy.