Learning Objectives: identify how an online reporting and information system can be an effective evaluation and surveillance tool.
Abstract:
Problem/Objective: Tobacco control evaluation can be very challenging given the wide range of activities that exist in most statewide programs. Identifying and monitoring the activities that take place in multiple communities can be very burdensome unless that information is housed in a centralized reporting system which provides easy ways to access and analyze the data.
Methods: Tobacco Free Nebraska implemented the Tobacco Reporting and Information Network (TRAIN) to facilitate information delivery among the state's 22 local tobacco control coalitions, and between the local coalitions and the state. In addition to being a communications resource for the program, the TRAIN system is an excellent evaluation tool because it provides a centralized database that details local tobacco control initiatives.
Results: The evaluation team worked closely with state staff and local coalitions to work out the technical issues involved in implementing TRAIN and in identifying the key indicators to be measured using the system. Results suggest that the TRAIN system provides excellent data for evaluators, local coalitions, and state staff.
Conclusions: Tobacco Free Nebraska's local tobacco control initiatives are now documented in and reported through the TRAIN system. This interactive online reporting and information system has facilitated the evaluation and surveillance efforts of the statewide program, and has enhanced communication among Nebraska's 22 local coalitions.
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