Veterans of Results-Based Accountability are probably aware that public health is one of the sectors that uses the RBA framework the most. The connection between the framework and this industry has a long history of success. Many of our case studies come from public health departments. Our overview of Clear Impact for Public Health Departments provides a snapshot of how our software, along with RBA, can be invaluable in public health matters, but much more could be said. 

Turning the Curve

An essential concept in the world of RBA is “turn the curve thinking.” When turning the curve, organizations identify a specific problem in their data and create an action plan to change the trending line in their favor. If you work in public health, this might already sound like a familiar strategy. Many professionals in the field utilize this thinking daily- identifying problems and working to turn them around. So what makes RBA’s “turn the curve” different and more effective than other methods? 

The process of “turning the curve” within the RBA framework consists of a specific strategy with proven steps to help you turn the curve faster. These steps include: 

1. Collect data and graph using a trendline
2. Analyze the data and identify the “story behind the curve”
3. Identify existing and potential partners that can help your organization along the way
4. Brainstorm ideas with your team that can help you begin to turn the curve
5. Implement your best ideas into a specific, comprehensive action plan

One great thing about using this framework is that it can be used to solve a large number of problems for your organization with proper data collection practices. Some applications may be obvious, such as uses within your current public health campaigns. But consider other benefits for the turn the curve framework, such as internal workforce management projects or volunteer and community event planning. In other words, if any of your work could use improvement, you can use this framework to turn that curve. 

RBA Means Better Use of Data

The Results-Based Accountability framework stresses the importance of using “actionable data.” “Actionable Data,” in contrast to raw data, will give you real insights into your organization and provide you with the “right” information that can be acted upon to improve your efficiency and effectiveness. Your specific data needs will vary depending on your immediate circumstances and goals, however here are some universal tips to enhance your collection:

1. Standardize data sets
2. Clean “dirty” data
3. Differentiate between types of data
4. Use the right tools for the job

If you want more in-depth information on how to improve your data collection, you can check out this blog. 

You will find data easier to differentiate and organize within the RBA framework. RBA stresses the importance of managing your data on three levels according to three types of accountability for your organization: population, performance, and personal. This article goes into detail about how you can begin organizing your data in this way, but the basic idea is that each “level” of data requires different types of attention. With this level of organization, your efficiency should increase naturally through streamlined goal-setting and performance tracking. 

To get started on understanding the different types of accountability within the RBA framework, here is a quick overview of each:

Population: Your population accountability should be the broadest type of measurement, which gauges your success through community indicators. These indicators should include, but not be limited to, individuals which your organization directly serves.

Performance: In contrast to population accountability, your performance measures should only include individuals you directly serve or your “customers.” In measuring these data sets, you should aim to answer the question, “Is anyone better off after we work with them?”

Personal: Your personal accountability should be the most specific measurement you gather. In this area, you will be asking yourself and your organization how good of a job you have done. In this way, you can look at your internal support systems and staff/volunteer satisfaction, among other indicators.

RBA Is Proven to Work For Public Health Departments

If the details of RBA’s process weren’t enough to ensure that it is the right choice for public health departments, you can see that the proof is in the pudding. Our growing list of RBA Success Stories features prominent examples of public health departments finding success. 

Take a look at this example, in which the New Mexico Department of Health was able to use RBA to turn the curve on Zika infections within their state. When infections were first detected, this health department set its sights on rapid identification, setting a measurable goal of 95% reported samples. They also set up strategic partnerships with SLD, epidemiologists, and other key organizations in their state to ensure that the virus is controlled. Their goals were met, and the virus did not spread.

Other examples of public health success can be seen in our case studies, including departments from Macomb County, Vermont, and more.