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4.2 DEFINING AND CHARACTERIZING THE HEALTH INDICATOR BEING EVALUATED
In order to evaluate an indicator, its purpose and attributes must be well-defined. This involves more than simply knowing and adequately describing its numerator and denominator (assuming it is structured in that way). Some publications (RIPSA, UNAIDS, and the WHO Global Reference List of 100 Core Indicators) are useful references for this discussion. (1-3).
- The name and definition of the indicator
- The purpose and rationale for the indicator (identification of what is to be measured)
- The method of measurement or calculation of the indicator
- The data sources (institutions and information systems involved) for the indicator
- The data collection methodology
- The frequency of data collection
- The levels of data disaggregation required
- The guidelines for the indicator's interpretation and use
- The indicator's strengths, limitations, and challenges
- Additional sources of information
- Explanatory remarks
Examples:
Model of a technical file for defining and characterizing health indicators from the PAHO Strategic Plan (Annex) and selected indicators from the Global Reference List of 100 Core Indicators (Excel spreadsheet).