Evaluation Summaries and Reports
Learn how the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (CBHSQ) works across SAMHSA and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to plan, implement, and monitor program evaluations.
Ongoing Evaluations
CBHSQ is responsible for improving access to valid and reliable information on evidence-based programs and practices, including information on the strength of evidence associated with such programs and practices, related to mental and substance use disorders.
The Office of Evaluation (OE), a key part of SAMHSA’s commitment to rigorous evaluation, maintains information on evidence-based programs and practices that have been reviewed by the Office of Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use.
Evaluation Reports
Proper reporting of evaluation background, methodology, and results is a key step to fostering understanding of services and programs provided by SAMHSA and the positive impact they may have at the national and international levels.
Evaluation Policies
The Foundation for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (“Evidence Act”) was signed into law (Public Law 115-435) on January 14, 2019. It requires agencies to identify and set priorities for evidence-building in consultation with their stakeholders. The Evidence Act also augments ongoing agency strategic planning activities to promote better use of management of data and evidence, consistent with the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-11, Part VI of Preparation, Submission, and Execution of the Budget.
Under the Evidence Act, federal agencies are expected to expand their capacity for engaging in program evaluation by designating evaluation officers, developing learning agendas; producing annual evaluation plans, and enabling a workforce to conduct internal evaluations. To this end, SAMHSA seeks to promote rigor, relevance, transparency, independence, and ethics in the conduct of its evaluations.