title: An evaluation tool for assessing performance in priority setting and resource allocation: multi-site application to identify strengths and weaknesses.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  An evaluation tool should help improve formal priority setting and resource allocation (PSRA) processes in Canada and elsewhere. These are crucial to maximizing value from limited resources.
  
  
  METHODS
  On the basis of case studies, balanced scorecard development protocols and use-focused evaluation principles, an evaluation tool was developed based on an existing framework for high PSRA performance and implemented in two health care organizations in British Columbia, Canada.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Implementation of the tool identified areas of strength, improvement and weakness in the pilot organizations' processes for PSRA including: communication, staff engagement and culture. Refinements were identified and incorporated into the tool for future application.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This is the first documented multi-site application of such an evaluation tool. Broader dissemination should have use both in further refining the basis of the tool and in catalysing improved performance of PSRA practice.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Clinical Epidemiology & Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada william.hall@ubc.ca will.hall50@gmail.com.
authors.forename: William
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.affiliation: Centre for Clinical Epidemiology & Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
authors.forename: Neale
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.affiliation: Centre for Clinical Epidemiology & Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
authors.forename: Craig
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Mitton
authors.affiliation: Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gibson
authors.affiliation: Centre for Clinical Epidemiology & Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
authors.forename: Stirling
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bryan
keywords: evaluation; priority setting; resource allocation