Question

The state department of health (DOH) is considering implementing several performance measures. In a meeting with the central budget office, DOH officials are discussing their options and seeking advice on which measures to include. Identify the type of measure each statement represents and indicate whether you would recommend it be implemented or not, and why.

A) Number of measles-mumps-rebella (MMR) shots givn to 2-year-olds

B) Percentage of 2-year-olds who are up-to-date on MMR vaccinations

C) Number of smoking-cessation classes provided

D) Number of teens attending smoking-cessation classes

E) Number of workshop materials copied for the classes

F) Percentage of high school students who smoke two cigarettes or more per week

G) Percent of state population diagnosed with lung cancer

H) Percent of class attendees who indicated satisfation with the smoking-cessation class

Answer 1

A) This is a number of shots measure which is a numerical measure and doesn't provide a clear information on the performance of the vaccination drive.

B) This is a ratio or percentage measure and it provides a clear representation of the vaccination coverage. This is recommended.

C) Number of classes doesn't provide an information on their effectiveness.

D) Number of teens attending the session provides a better representation of the class effetciveness.

E) Number of workshop materials copied for the classes is not an effective measure.

F) Percentage of students smoking cigarettes is an effetctive measure to find out the addiction of cigarettes and hence is recommended.

G) Percentage of state population diagnosed with lung cancer provides a good representation of the spread of the cancer. This is recommended.

H) Percentage of class attendees who indicated satisfaction with the smoking-cessation class would provide the effectiveness of the classes. This is recommended.