A primer in program evaluation for MedFTs

In health care today, most funding sources are looking for signs of evidence-based practices and measures of effectiveness. Utilizing the designs and methods of program evaluation has the potential to convey the relevance and value of including MedFTs to program beneficiaries and stakeholders. Program evaluation is the systematic assessment of social programs using social research procedures (Rossi, Lipsey, & Freeman, 2004) and is an imperative skill needed to promote the inclusion of behavioral health services. MedFTs provide unique contributions to program evaluation efforts because of their focus on contextual and relational issues that may impact program outcomes, especially as they pertain to patient care. Consider the following scenarios which illustrate when MedFTs may be called upon to conduct a program evaluation: Scenario 1. A community health center is applying for state funding to enhance their efforts to address pediatric obesity in its local populace. The MedFT has been asked to assist in writing a proposal which requires a program evaluation plan that illustrates whether or not the project was successful and had the desired impact on the center's clientele.