A Mixed-Methods Assessment of the CPRIT Prevention Program: Findings from the First 18 Months
Introduction
Texas Health Institute, in partnership with the MD Anderson Cancer Center, was selected to conduct an assessment of the CPRIT Prevention Program from 2010 to 2020 to measure the effectiveness, reach, and impact of the program over the last 10 years of funding.
Methods
The assessment is a mixed-methods design intended to utilize existing data and administrative records, combined with primary data collected from CPRIT Prevention Program stakeholders. Completed activities in the assessment to date have included: 1) an evaluability assessment, 2) an online survey of program directors, and 3) an online survey of grant collaborators/community partners.
Results
The evaluability assessment was completed in 2022, confirming the plausibility of Prevention Program impact, feasibility of measuring impact, and the utility of a comprehensive assessment. These findings were used to inform subsequent assessment activities, including the Program Director Survey and the Collaborator Survey. In total, 63 responses were received from the Program Director Survey. Participants reported strengthened organizational partnerships (70%), increased reach to underserved populations (71%), and increased professional competency (63%) as positive outcomes, while identifying lack of funding (55%) and staff capacity (35%) as barriers to sustainability. The Collaborator Survey received 22 responses: participants reported increased cancer screening rates (72%), increased access to screening and detection services (66.7%), increased patient navigation (45%), improvements to staff knowledge and skills (70%), and strengthened community partnerships (60%). The most common barrier to sustainability reported by collaborators was lack of funding (72.2%).
Conclusion
The assessment to date has illustrated the positive impact of the Prevention Program on screening rates, provider and staff competency, community partnerships, and community engagement, along with revealing financial and staffing barriers to program success and opportunities to improve reporting processes. As the assessment continues, THI will continue to explore and expand on these findings via Key Informant Interviews with Program Directors, developing case studies, and conducting analysis of grantee reports for documented infrastructure improvements. Additional quantitative analysis will include mapping of cancer outcomes across the state. The assessment will conclude in February of 2024.