Program Evaluation

• Defining Program Goals

• Risk Screening

• Leading Indicators

• Measuring Dietary Change

• Health Care Costs

• Data Collection - Logistics

• Examples of Evaluation Models

• Top 10 Greatest Hits of Food Is Medicine Data Analysis
  

For the purpose of this resource page, we are defining “Program Evaluation” as data collection that will directly improve a program’s ability to reach its goals, including through improving the experience of program participants, partners, staff, and volunteers.

Most programs will also need to comply with funders’ requirements for reporting to demonstrate the impact of their investment, which is not addressed here. Programs interested in assessments that will prepare them to attract funding should review the requirements of specific potential funders.

Most of the examples use quantitative structured data, such as surveys. Many programs will want to use more informal “data collection” (like conversations) to hone in on key questions to answer. We are in the process of developing resources for these exploratory stages.

This page does not include research projects, which are designed to further general understanding in the field of food and health care. While many of the evaluation tools may be similar, research follows certain additional protocols to remain ethical and valid.