Implementation
Because of the significant variety among proven interventions, states and communities have leeway to find programs that suit local values, opportunities, and budgets. [1] The key is to select strategies that have documented effectiveness, assure that they are implemented well, and recognize the critical importance of a strong commitment to continuous program improvement. Match expectations with sufficient resources. Be clear about the goals, purpose and target audience for specific programs. Provide sufficient resources to ensure fidelity to the evidence-based model, or modify expectations to accommodate variances.
Provide sufficient investment to support monitoring and technical assistance processes over time.
Support local capacity. Provide technical assistance, monitoring and oversight to local programs and agencies. Create opportunities for local-to-local communication, best-practices sharing, and local input on state policy decisions.
Support ongoing evaluation and continuous program improvement.
The Louisiana Adolescent Health Initiative (AHI) facilitates and coordinates a multi-disciplinary approach to adolescent health care, disease prevention and health promotion in the state. AHI serves as a repository of adolescent information in Louisiana, and assists local communities to identify needs and potential resources, prioritize problems, develop solutions and evaluate impact. AHI also coordinates and collaborates with internal and external agencies to infuse adolescent voices into statewide planning and policy-making efforts. Collaborative bodies include a steering committee, a Family Planning Advisory Board, a Teen Pregnancy Prevention Task Force, and a youth leadership team.
[1] Suellentrop, K (2010). What Works 2010: Curriculum-Based Programs That Help Prevent Teen Pregnancy. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy: Washington, DC.