Ongoing Formative Evaluation and Quality Improvement in an Interprofessional Family Support Program

Abstract

The Raising Families Project delivered three, 12-week cohorts of interprofessional services alongside graduate student training, where weekly evaluation surveys provided formative data. This article examines quality improvement via ongoing formative program evaluation. The purpose of the current study was to gather and analyze Raising Families Project participant feedback relating to program delivery logistics, to improve ongoing and future program delivery and quality. A total of 347 weekly evaluation surveys were collected from caregivers (n = 37), students (n = 35), and clinicians (n = 7). Descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis were utilized to analyze survey data. Five themes were developed related to quality improvement, namely immediate vs. sustained adjustments, logistical enhancements, challenging flexibility, collaborative benefits/varied meaning, revealing complexity of participants’ preferences, alongside iterative improvements resulting from feedback. Findings suggest the need to include formative evaluation, to embed the caregiver/family in interprofessional approaches, and to consider individuals’ needs in practice.

Plain Language Summary

Working Together with Families: A Community Approach

The Raising Families Project provided team therapy to families and young children. Weekly feedback from caregivers, students and therapists improved the program. This article explains how listening to weekly feedback from families can help programs adapt.