2022 Volume 71 Issue 5 Pages 397-407
The final evaluation of “Health Japan 21 (the second term)” was carried out in 3 stages: 1) evaluation of the target items against the target values; 2) evaluation of the results of various activities; and, 3) evaluation of the health promotion movement as a whole in the 21st century, and clarification of the issues that exist for formulating the next National Health Promotion Plan. This paper primarily explains the methods for stage 1), so that it can be used as a reference when evaluating the health promotion plans of local governments.
“Health Japan 21 (the second term)” has 53 specific “target items,” based on five basic directions. One or more specific “indicator(s)” are set for each target item, and the actual values of the indicators against the target values, as well as related efforts are evaluated. To better understand the trends of the indicators by segment, the data were presented in a visual and attractive manner using charts and figures. In addition, confidence intervals were calculated for the values of indicators, a statistical test was performed, and adjustments for age were made if necessary and possible. By comparing the actual value of each indicator against the target value, an evaluation was made by classification into the following categories: A) achieved the target value, B) improved, C) unchanged, D) became worse, or E) difficult to evaluate. In addition to the individual indicators, the overall evaluation of each target item was similarly classified into A to E. The results of the evaluation and analysis for each target item were summarized in the “Evaluation Sheet - Form 1,” which included annual trends in the indicators against target values, data sources and calculation methods, analysis results (including issues regarding the survey), and the evaluations of the individual indicator(s) and target items. In the “Evaluation Sheet - Form 2,” the results of the evaluations were reported in more detail, consisting of a summary of the evaluation status of the target items, the organization of related efforts, analysis related to the evaluation of each target item, future issues, and the impact of the spread of the COVID-19 infection. Furthermore, in stage 2), the efforts of the national government, local governments, companies, and organizations were organized and evaluated. In stage 3), in addition to the evaluation of Health Japan 21 (the second term), the major flow of movement of Japan’s health promotion, continuing from Health Japan 21 was comprehensively evaluated, and the issues for the next National Health Promotion Plan were sorted out.
For convenience in evaluating the health promotion plans in local governments, PC tools that enable the same data analysis, such as age-adjustment, statistical tests, figures, and charts, that are used for the evaluation of “Health Japan 21 (the second term)” are provided on the website of National Institute of Public Health, and are also used in the training programs. When evaluating the local health promotion plans in prefectures and municipalities, it is advisable to refer to them, as necessary.
