An evaluation of a state hepatitis prevention and control program: focus group interviews with clients.

This article presents the results of the qualitative component of a comprehensive evaluation of a state hepatitis prevention and control program. The qualitative component of the evaluation was designed to assess the motivational factors behind clients seeking hepatitis-related services and explore their experiences with the services provided by local health departments. The transtheoretical model was employed as a means of identifying the stage of change the client was in and what processes of change were useful in moving the client through the various stages of change. Focus groups were conducted with 44 participants in six different counties in Florida. Results of the focus group interviews support the use of the transtheoretical model in program evaluation using focus group methods. The findings of the focus groups suggest the need for education of the public and health care providers regarding hepatitis and the importance of supportive relationships to clients seeking and receiving hepatitis screening and vaccination.