Which evaluation type primarily measures whether intended outcomes were achieved?

Outcome evaluation is focused specifically on assessing the extent to which the intended results of a program or intervention have been achieved. This evaluation type analyzes the end results or impacts, such as measuring changes in health status, behaviors, or conditions that are directly attributable to the program. It provides valuable data on the effectiveness of healthcare initiatives and helps determine whether the goals set at the beginning of a project were reached.

In contrast, process evaluation primarily examines the methods and processes used to implement a program, such as how services were delivered and whether they were aligned with the intended plans. Risk assessment focuses on identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities within a system, ensuring that there are strategies in place to mitigate them. Operational review generally looks at the efficiency and effectiveness of the organization's operations, including resource utilization and operational systems, but it does not directly measure the specific outcomes of a program. Thus, outcome evaluation stands out as the type that is specifically designed to verify the success of achieving intended outcomes.