title: Methodologic problems in the evaluation of self-management programs.
abstract: Two conceptions of program evaluation, namely, evaluation-as-proof and evaluation-as-improvement, are considered. Evaluation for purposes of program improvement of health-related programs is recommended. Recent advances in assessment of program outcomes, particularly criterion-referenced measurement, are described. Recommendations are also offered regarding treatment definition, data-gathering designs, cost analysis, and the collaborative conduct of health-related evaluations.
mesh_terms: D001249:Asthma / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D003625:Data Collection; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000592:standards*; D012648:Self Care