Part V. APPENDIX TO THE PERFORMANCE PLAN
E. Program Evaluation and GPRA Measurement
SAMHSA continuously conducts program evaluation and performance measurement to
ensure effectiveness and efficiency of its program investments. In addition,
SAMHSA also conducts management evaluations to improve efficiency and
effectiveness. Evaluation studies enable focus on broader questions to develop
needed information for management. Evaluation findings directly support agency
policy development and program management. Collaboration on evaluation with
ASPE and other Op Divs has been facilitated through SAMHSA's participation and
support of the Research Coordination Council.
SAMHSA evaluates each of its service programs so as to provide information to
program managers about the accountability of Federal funds. Currently, SAMHSA
is cooperating with NIH in developing a Sciences to Services initiative to
speed best practices into use. Evaluation of these Sciences to Services
programs is needed to monitor effectiveness in different populations and
conditions.
Evaluation findings demonstrate the extent to which grant programs have achieved
their overall objectives, and provide information for program and policy
development, as well as to refine strategies and performance objectives for
future years. This evaluation policy helps SAMHSA achieve its goal of
continually informing policy and program development with knowledge culled from
past performance. This results in programs building on the success of preceding
programs, in effect bench marking, so that SAMHSA can enhance the quality and
relevance of publicly-funded substance abuse and mental health services.
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