Evaluating the Service

New ways of working have to have integral robust evaluation. Audit needs to be on-going throughout and specific. There should be a method of data analysis right from the start and baseline comparison.

• Can the service be compared with other similar services in other areas?
• What would happen if the service closed?
• Are quantitative outcomes being measured such as hospital admission avoidance, or qualitative outcomes such as the patient experience?

For instance patient education can reduce patient anxieties, promote self-care, reduce episodes in hospital care, prevent long term complications and reduce visits to primary care.

Build in evaluation and audit strategies as part of the service design and objectives.