Formulate Evaluation Questions (Step 2)

Abstract

In this chapter we define the five basic categories of evaluation, namely structure (resources), process (activities), outcomes, adequacy, and costs associated with the response(s). Structure refers to the equipment and personnel and the way in which these resources were organized for use in the medical response. Process refers to the activities carried out during the disaster response. Outcome assessment concerns the results of the care provided on the patients served, usually measured over time. Adequacy describes the extent to which the search-and-rescue, pre-hospital and hospital, and public health responses were able to meet the needs of the community during the disaster response. In general, these categories are consistent with the design of a typical logic model. Following the discussion of ‘evaluation categories’ we suggest questions that the evaluation team might consider for inclusion in the evaluation study. For each category we suggest questions which could be addressed in any disaster evaluation study which focuses on the medical and public health response. The stakeholder group should be fully involved in the selection of questions to be addressed by the evaluation team.