Ever contemplated the “Principles of Evaluation and Research for Health Care Programs”?

Well, stop struggling.  Public health researcher Kay Perrin, PhD, MPH addresses this and more in her recently published book.

Noted as “A classroom-tested resource loaded with practical examples from across the health disciplines,” the book includes companion pieces such as a website with interactive crossword puzzles and flashcards designed to enhance student learning. Future releases will include support materials for instructors.

According to publisher Jones & Bartlett Learning, the book “provides a basic understanding of the importance of and the key approaches used to conduct health program research and evaluations.” Undergraduates are the target audience, but the book’s focus on “terminology, levels and types of measurement, data collection methods, sampling and basic statistical analysis” are useful to anyone considering a career in the health professions.

In 2013, Dr. Perrin received the Riegelman Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Public Health Education. Named and funded by Dr. Richard Riegelman and his wife, Linda, the award encourages and recognizes excellence in teaching of public health to undergraduate students.  Most recently, Dr. Perrin was named assistant dean for Undergraduate Programs in the USF College of Public Health.

“… the college’s undergraduate program is the fastest growing undergraduate program at USF,” said Donna Petersen, ScD, interim senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the College of Public Health.  “That is due to the willingness of our faculty to “step up” and offer outstanding courses and to Dr. Perrin’s leadership and commitment to the success of the program.”

USF is home to the first accredited college to offer a bachelor of public health degree in Florida. Most recently, the BSPH added an online format to its offerings. Currently, more than 800 undergraduates are pursuing their practice, their passion in public health.

The Department of Community and Family Health serves as Dr. Perrin’s academic home.  It includes more than 10 concentrations that lead to MPH, MSPH, DrPH, and PhD degrees, as well as several dual degrees, graduate certificates, and special programs.

Story and photo by Natalie D. Preston, USF College of Public Health