A Participatory Evaluation Framework for the Implementation of a Transdisciplinary Center for Health Disparities Research

Abstract

This article describes the participatory evalu­ation framework for the Transdisciplinary Collaborative Center for Health Disparities Research (TCC) funded by the National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities. In collaboration with TCC stake­holders, logic models, the McKinlay model, and process and outcome evaluation plans, including quantitative and qualitative methods, have been developed and used to document the impact of the TCC. The McKinlay model, a widely used compre­hensive health model for eliminating health disparities, was also tailored to document the outcomes of the TCC. The process and outcome evaluation plans for the TCC guide continuous improvement and the achieve­ment of its specific aims. The evaluation of the TCC occurred between 2012 and 2019 and involved key stakeholders in TCC re­search and programming. Several challenges exist for implementing an evaluation plan of a health equity-focused policy research center. However, we learned several lessons that will ensure progress toward specific aims and will help the TCC serve as a model for similar programs and centers.Ethn Dis. 2019;29(Suppl 2):385-392. doi:10.18865/ed.29.S2.385

Achieving Health Equity through Science, Policy, and Partnerships

“…The center also recognizes the need to assess impact, by conducting participatory evaluations using research logic models, and evaluations of both processes and outcomes. 18 Articles in this issue describe multi-level training efforts to advance health equity. McGregor et al 9 applied theoretical approaches and an integrated care model to train behavioral health care providers in cultural competence to improve health equity.…”