Examining the Process and Effects of Engaging Patients and Family in Health Service Evaluation: Results from a One-Year Prospective Intervention Study

Abstract

Abstract: Research on program evaluation in the context of patient and family engagement is highly limited. Collaborative approaches to evaluation (CAE), with their emphasis on evaluators working in partnership with program community members, align well with patient- and family-centred care philosophy and hold great promise in leveraging desired outcomes. In this prospective intervention case study, we tracked a one-year collaborative initiative to engage health care providers, patients, and family members in improvement-oriented needs assessment activities. The findings illuminate the lived experiences of health-care staff, patients, and family members with the CAE process. We conclude with implications for ongoing research and practice.