What Are the Methods of Data Collection for SCHIP Evaluations?

SCHIP Workshop presenter Linda Bilheimer, Deputy Assistant at the Congressional Budget Office, discussed basic approaches and data sources for evaluation of State SCHIP programs.

There are three basic methods States can use to evaluate SCHIP, and most States will likely use some combination of all of these approaches:

Sample Surveys. These surveys are critical tools since they provide population-based estimates. Although the Current Population Survey (CPS) is most widely utilized, States should use it with caution since it is not designed to provide State-specific estimates. Standard errors are high when attempting to extrapolate State-specific data, since each State represents only a small subset of the CPS population.

Administrative Databases. These databases can yield information on effectiveness of outreach and enrollment strategies, stability of coverage, displacement of private coverage, and effects of SCHIP on access and use of services.

Qualitative Analyses Based on Site Visits. Visits to sites where uninsured children and families are likely to be can yield valuable information on the effectiveness of outreach and enrollment strategies.

In evaluating SCHIP, States will want to look at the effects of all aspects of the program on insurance coverage. This will require assessments of all program processes from outreach and enrollment strategies to participants' use of services.