Evaluating Educational Programs of Center for Consultation and Education of Mental Health in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Introduction: One of the main criteria for a complete care system in mental health is using evaluation data to identify and focus on potential capacities for future planning. The goal of this study was to evaluate educational programs of center for mental health education and consultation in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In this evaluation study, the participants of educational programs of this center, from March 2001 until August 2003 were investigated. A researcher made questionnaire was used to study the knowledge, attitude and practice of people referring to this center, in 11 educational subjects presented in the educational programs. The demographic characteristics were also asked along with the main questionnaire. The data analysis was made using descriptive and inferential statistics, t-test, and ANOVA by SPSS software. Results: Center for consultation and education of mental health, has had a successful performance regarding identifying mild mental problems. Based on the designed criteria for evaluating educational programs in this center, these programs were relatively successful in promoting the knowledge and practice of referred people. Conclusion: Considering the increasing complications of societies and the necessity to educate people for the purpose of preventing acute mental disorders, it seems that implementing and developing such centers is one of the priorities of health system and medical education in the country.