Logic Model for Program Planning
Logic model has been employed in planning programs for various problems. The model describes how various aspects of a program such as activities, resources, audiences, outputs, and outcomes are logically linked. It further describes how the above aspects are linked to the problem the program seeks to address. Initially, it was used in program evaluation for identifying performance measures. In this case, a program would be described in terms of logic model first before performance measures are identified. The model has since been adapted for use in program planning. In general, logic model either graphically or in narrative form seeks to communicate the following: purposes of a program, the components of the program, the sequence of activities, and accomplishments of the entire program.
Logic model has three main elements: situation, inputs, outputs, and outcomes. Situation refers to the condition that needs to be changed through implementation of a program. For instance, poverty, high incidence of malaria, and high prevalence of HIV/AIDS are examples of conditions that health programs may seek to address. Since our problem is tuberculosis among immigrants, it becomes the situation in the logic model. Inputs refer to what is invested in the program. This element includes money, equipment, facilities, time, and partners. Outputs refer to activities to be carried out and the number of people reached. Lastly, outcomes imply impacts of the program on the targeted community. In general, the model gives a comprehensive description of how a program is to be implemented and evaluated.
Why logic model is appropriate for tackling tuberculosis among immigrants
Tuberculosis is highly communicable hence can be transmitted easily if measures to minimize its transmission are not taken. Programs aimed at tackling tuberculosis require clear description of processes that would lead to achievement of desired impact. This requirement is significant especially because of the complexities posed by such programs. For instance, it would be difficult to ensure that all immigrants are screened for TB, monitored, and prevented from transmitting the disease if no clear description of how this would be achieved is given during program planning. In addition, it would be difficult to tell how successful the program is without proper evaluation criteria. Logic model gives description of program implementation processes, and evaluation and how they are linked. Consequently, it is appropriate for addressing the problem.
The field that developed logic model
Logic theory was developed and initially applied in the field of evaluation. Program evaluators mainly relied on the theory for identifying measures of program performance. Based on the performance measures, evaluation would be done.
How Logic Model Has Been Applied in Fields Other Than Nursing
Logic model has been applied in various fields other than nursing. Management, business, and technology are some of the fields in which the model has extensively been applied. In management has been widely used to implement new organization policies. According to MacPhee (2009), this model has been used in management for designing various organizations’ programs. Funnell (2011) also states that the field of education has employed this model in planning education programs.
How logic Model Has Been Applied in Nursing
Logic model has been extensively applied in nursing for evaluation of various programs. For instance, the model was used in planning neonatal intensive care unit program which reduced the length of stay of premature infants (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2011).
References
MacPhee, M. (January 01, 2009). Developing a practice-academic partnership logic model. Nursing Outlook, 57, 3.)
Funnell, S. C., & Rogers, P. J. (2011). Purposeful program theory: Effective use of theories of change and logic models (Vol. 31). Wiley. com.
McLaughlin, J. A., & Jordan, G. B. (2010). Using logic models. Handbook of practical program evaluation, 55-80.
Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (Eds.). (2011). Evidence-based practice in nursing and healthcare. Wolters Kluwer Health.
