[Use of the qualitative research methodology in assessing impact of the interventions aiming to improve health and quality of life in the community].

UNLABELLED

Aim of this study was to assess the impact of the interventions aiming to improve health and quality of life in the community.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of 44 selected information rich cases from five cities: Liverpool, Sandwell, Vienna, Pula, and Rijeka. The five cities were selected by high-variability sampling. In each city the interventions were selected through a network of key informants by using a chain technique. Data on each of the 44 selected interventions were collected at three levels: by in-depth interview with the programme leader, by collection of written documents on the project and by on-site observation during the visit to the programme. Data analysis was done by two qualitative analysis methods: content analysis and computer-assisted free-text analysis.

RESULTS

The study was performed in Liverpool and Sandwell in 1993, in Pula in 1996, in Vienna in 1997, and in Rijeka in 1998. The interventions showed different characteristics depending on whether they were initiated by the formal city sector, by the health system, or by the informal citizens sector. The criterion was applicable regardless of the place and country of origin of the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results of this study, it is possible to recommend how to design interventions in the future, improve their efficiency and the probability of accomplishing the ultimate aim, which are better health and/or higher quality of life of the community.