[Cooperation in Public Health: Formative Evaluation of the Model Project "Regional Health Conferences" in Bavaria]

Aim of the study: Health conferences offer opportunities for better cooperation and coordination in local health management. The aim of the explorative evaluation study was to assess structures, processes and results of "Regional Health Conferences (RGK)" in 3 model regions, to inform about potential for development and to test their transferability to other regions. Method: After the model project had been up and running for 18 months (08/2013 to 12/2014), a survey of 80 participants of the RGK in 3 regions was conducted, based on a semi-standardized questionnaire. The response rate was 90%. The results were complemented by document analysis and an additional survey of the managers of the RGK. Results: The 3 RGK were established with their agencies and 13 working groups on health care. Almost all participants felt that the number of members was appropriate and that the main stakeholders were represented. According to a large part of the respondents, the majority actively took part in the RGK and usually everyone had the equal opportunity to propose a topic. Although almost half of the respondents reported conflicts, the atmosphere was constructive for 3-quarters of them. Nearly all the interviewees confirmed the importance of a chairman and a manager of the agency, as well as the positive influence of the moderator. Almost everyone agreed that RGK are suited to improve health care and cooperation. From the participants' point of view, the main problems were identified; 94% of the respondents agreed that the previous work could be regarded as successful and 91% were satisfied or rather satisfied with the processes of the RGK. The level of satisfaction was similar among the three model regions, but it varied among the member groups; 98% of the interviewees would also take part in the future. Conclusion: According to this survey, RGK are an appropriate platform for coordination, exchange und cooperation of stakeholders and a good instrument for cooperation. In Bavaria, the approach will be further improved as well as extended to other regions based on a new concept called "Health Regions^plus".