Program evaluation determines whether a social intervention is producing an intended result. Cost-effectiveness studies determine the relative cost and effects two or more social interventions. Cost-benefit studies determine whether the results of a social intervention can be justified by its expense.

Intervention: One-on-one intervention with first-time mothers to increase the duration of exclusive breastfeeding.

Mean Months Exclusive Breastfeeding Pre-Intervention Post-Intervention Change 1.5 4.0 +2.5 Conclusion: The intervention produced the intended result.

Intervention 1: One-on-one intervention with first-time mothers to increase the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Cost = $2,500 Intervention 2: One-on-one intervention plus phone support with first-time mothers to increase the duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Cost = $3,200

Cost-Effectiveness Cost-Effectiveness Ratio = total cost / effectiveness Intervention 1 costs $2,500 and results in a mean of 4 months of exclusive breastfeeding. $2,500 / 4 = $625 Intervention 2 costs $3,200 and results in a mean of 7 months of exclusive breastfeeding. $3,200 / 7 = $457

Cost-Effectiveness Ratio Intervention 1 $2,500 4 $625 Intervention 2 $3,200 7 $457 Conclusion: Intervention 2, while more costly, is more cost effective.

Can Intervention 2 be justified by its expense?

Cost-Benefit Net Benefit = total benefits – total costs Total costs of intervention = $3,200 Total benefits to mother and child = $5,600 Net Benefit = $5,600 - $3,200 = $2,400 Conclusion: Yes, Intervention 2 is justified by its expense