Identification and Application of Need Assessment Criteria and Prioritization of Environmental Health Projects in Military Centers Based on Weighing Matrix and Field Evaluation

Background and Aim: This study aimed to identify criteria affecting the prioritization of environmental health projects in military centers and to propose a prioritization strategy. Methods: In this descriptive study, by reviewing and summarizing the theoretical frameworks, the criteria for assessing and prioritizing environmental health projects were identified. Next, by presenting the general content of the questionnaire to experts, their constructive opinions were applied. After designing the assessment checklist, which included 16 criteria, relevant sub-criteria were also designed for each criterion. Scores 1, 2, and 3 were assigned to the criteria, and the sub-criteria were scored from 1 to 10. A weighted score was obtained by multiplying the weight of criteria by their scores. The weighted score was obtained by multiplying the score by its weight. After summing all the weighted scores, the total score of each center was obtained. In a center with a higher overall score, the implementation of environmental health plans had a higher priority. Finally, a field evaluation was performed. Results: According to the total scores, environmental health projects had the highest priority in center D and center F, respectively. Conclusion: The method proposed in this study, by considering the opinions of experts and converting qualitative criteria into quantitative ones, can be a helpful guide for health planners and other decision-makers and officials to make logical decisions. It is recommended to appoint a specialized committee to prioritize environmental health projects.