Analyzing Costs, Procedures, Processes, and Outcomes in Human Services : An Introduction

The techniques for performing cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) and cost-benefit analysis (CBA) in mental health and other human services are introduced in this volume.

After describing a model for assessment and improvement-oriented analysis of human service systems using CEA and CBA methods, the author then shows how to analyze each of the links between the expenditure of resources and the achievement of long-term program objectives. Examples of each step in understanding and improving relationships between resources used, procedures, processes induced, and outcomes generated are drawn from the author′s own long and varied experience. They are designed to encourage readers to conduct their own quantitative and qualitative analyses of cost, procedure, process, and outcomes paths in human service.

Introducing techniques for performing cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) and cost-benefits analysis (CBA) in mental health and other human services. Author Brian T. Yates shows CEA and CBA can be used for optimizing programs. Beginning with a description of a model for comprehensive assessment and improvement-oriented analysis of human service systems using CEA and CBA methods, Yates subsequently shows the reader how to analyze each of the links between the expenditure of resources and the achievement of long-term program objectives. Examples of each step in understanding and improving relationships among resources used, procedures, processes induced, and outcomes generated are drawn from Yates′s research in residential and outpatient substance abuse programs, nonprofit mental health clinics, residential programs for dependent/neglected urban youth, suicide prevention, and self-management training. The examples are designed to encourage readers to explore the concepts and techniques by conducting their own quantitative and qualitative analyses of cost, procedure, process, and outcome paths in human services.