Learning Objectives: Explain how to develop a comprehensive data collection and evaluation system.
Abstract:
Problem/Objective: In an effort to improve cessation evaluation, the Tobacco Education and Prevention Program (TEPP) of the Arizona Department of Health Services contracted with the Network for Information and Counseling (NICNET) at the University of Arizona to design and build a comprehensive client system. Previously, two different data systems had been employed to evaluate community based cessation classes and the telephone-based counseling of the Arizona Smokers’ Helpline.
Methods: In fall 2001, NICNET management analyzed the questionnaires and data points of the two existing evaluation systems, conducted interviews with community coordinators, and produced a system analysis which included preliminary specifications for the new data system. Between January and July 2002, NICNET conducted a series of stakeholder meetings with community coordinators, class facilitators, Helpline counselors, evaluators, programmers, and TEPP staff to gather information.
Results: Through this coordinated effort, the group derived a set of common intake and evaluation follow-up questions which became the backbone of the new comprehensive cessation evaluation system. The client intake section went online in September 2002; additional functionality is being phased in throughout FY 02-03 and FY 03-04. Further enhancements include: a sophisticated evaluation system that collects multiple quit rates, reasons for relapse, use of medications and self-help aids, and program satisfaction; distributed data entry at the county level; an online counseling system for the Arizona Smokers’ Helpline; and semi-automated process and outcome reports.
Conclusions: Involving groups of stakeholders in the process of developing a data system adds significantly to the development time, but also increases system acceptance.
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