Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

Which evaluation type focuses on the effectiveness and reliability of program delivery?

1. Formative evaluation

2. Process evaluation

3. Summative evaluation

4. Impact evaluation

The correct answer is: Process evaluation

Process evaluation focuses on the effectiveness and reliability of program delivery by assessing the implementation process of a program or intervention. This type of evaluation examines how a program is being executed, including the fidelity to the design, the participation of target populations, and the contexts in which the program operates. It aims to understand whether the program is delivered as intended and can identify areas where the delivery might be improved. This evaluation is essential because it provides insights into whether the components of the program are functioning as planned and how they can be optimized for better outcomes. By evaluating the implementation processes, stakeholders can make informed decisions about the program’s operation and make necessary adjustments to enhance effectiveness. Other evaluation types have different focal points. For instance, formative evaluation is primarily concerned with early-stage assessments that inform program design and improvements before full implementation. Summative evaluation assesses the overall outcomes and effectiveness of a program after it has been implemented, often measuring its impact on target health outcomes. Finally, impact evaluation focuses on the long-term effects of a program and whether it has made a difference in the targeted population's health status. Although all these types are valuable, only process evaluation specifically hones in on the reliability and effectiveness of how the program is delivered.