A Model for Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation of the Implementation in Contracting Units for Primary Care Network, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

The objectives of this study was to develop a model for promoting participation of all levels of personnel in the monitoring and evaluation (M and E) of the primary care network of Khon Kaen Province, Thailand. The study process which applied the participatory action research approach was comprised of 4 stages: (1) situation analysis regarding problems relating to monitoring and evaluation, (2) developing a participatory monitoring and evaluation model, (3) implementation of the proposed model, and (4) evaluation on the utilization and quality of the model. It was conducted during in October 2014 – November 2015. Data collection tools included questionnaires, group discussion record form, key-performance-indicator record form and a standard assessment form. Data were collected from health personnel of the Khon Kaen Provincial Health Office; and were analyzed by descriptive statistics and content analysis. It was found that there were 3 main problem areas which were (1) the policy alignment: limited involvement of the person-nel from contracting units for primary care (CUPs) in the M and E; (2) M and E process: lacking of capacity building on supervision, monitoring, and evaluation; and (3) outputs: lacking of assessment standards and utilization of the M and E results. The pilot M and E model was found to be useful in improving performance of the CUPs; and high level of satisfaction in all M and E dimensions was ob-served. It should be concluded that the model had promoted learning and problem solving among the CUPs’ personnel; and facilitated policy alignment at all levels (ministrial, departmental and provincial) including all health administrative and health service facilities within the province. The model would be suitable for promoting implementation, monitoring and evaluation functions among the CUPs in a partici-patory manner leading to the attainment of the strategic goals.