A model for program evaluation in a unitized setting.

The unitized psychiatric hospital poses unique problems for the design of successful program evaluation systems. Using the model of program evaluation in operation at the Harlem Valley Psychiatric Center in New York, the authors describe what they have found to be essential components of a successful evaluation system, including methods of data input, processing, and feedback. Also discussed are the roles of key personnel and the utilization of data by clinical and administrative staff. The reasons for success of the system are discussed, as well as the potential role of program evaluation in integrating services, training, and administration of the facility.