**2. Evaluation**

Program evaluation has been described as a systematic process that examines the value of a program or project in light of its efficiency, effectiveness and appropriateness [4]. Appropriate evaluation supports accountability and enables a robust evidence base to guide health service planning and delivery. While there are various forms of evaluation approaches, commonly, many of these approaches fit under formative, process and summative types depending on the implementation phase. Evaluators need to consider the context of the program they are assessing, stakeholder needs and the resources available and use discretion to choose the type of evaluation approach [5]. In instances, where there is not enough clarity about the link between the interventions and outcomes, other parameters such as appropriateness and progress of the intervention can be considered in the evaluation process [1].

A type of evaluation termed economic evaluation is increasingly becoming popular. It is a technique initially developed by economists but now widely adopted by other practitioners too [3]. Basically, it compares the benefits and costs associated with an intervention and informs options that could be adopted. While there are various forms of economic evaluation including cost-effectiveness analysis, cost-utility analysis and cost-minimisation analysis, the 'cost-benefit' framework is common to all these forms [3]. Economic evaluation, however, assesses only one aspect of a healthcare intervention and should be complemented by other forms of assessment including clinical evaluation. Ideally, economic evaluation should be supported by clinical trials, so appropriate data can inform decision-making.
