Critique and Program Evaluation:
This program upon examination was difficult to
understand through the PRECEDE/PROCEED model
and use of this model uncovered many flaws and
inherent design problems with the program
implementation and its evaluation. The results of my
work are to suggest an evaluation plan based on
questions, methods and ideas for analysis. There are no
“results” for me to analyze.
This program was begun in 2004, and is funded
through IHS grant through 2006. The question the
agency wished to have ultimately answered through
this evaluation was whether this program should be
sustained on limited and highly demanded agency
funds after the grant ends.
My recommendation is that this particular program
should not be sustained in its current form. While there
is likely a strong need for a program to increase
services and increase clients served, there is not
evidence that this program increased clients served.
The program alludes to the need for wrap around
services to remove barriers (related to social
determinants) to accessing care, however they do not
describe how this will be done or measured, and are
therefore unable to convince us of their success and
need for continued funding. I recommend
that another program be designed with greater
input from the actual clients who would be
served, and that the PRECEDE/PROCEED
model be used to design this program,
implement it and evaluate the results.
Heart of the Sacred Circle
Evaluation of a behavioral health program integrating traditional and western medical practices for at risk
urban American Indian/ Alaska Native (AI/AN) youth
Program purpose:
Aim 1. Heart of the Sacred Circle project is to identify and treat
Native American and Alaskan Native children and youth and their
families, who are at risk due to negative effects of behavioral health
issues. The project utilizes a dual approach to healing: The Medicine
Wheel approach to wellness and healing is used to attain balance in the
family circle, while psychologi