Evaluating the Process of Involving Affected Community Members in Service Delivery and Design: A Deliberative Dialogue Case Study
Abstract
This study investigates the use of a deliberative dialogue (DD) as a method of patient and public involvement (PPI) in decision-making and priority setting in service delivery and design. A single mixed methods case study was used to evaluate a DD that involved tenants of a rent-geared-to-income building as stakeholders alongside public health, primary care, and social services. Using quantitative survey data and inductive thematic analysis of project documents, focus groups, and field notes, we found that: (1) tenants highly valued actionable outcomes; (2) it is important to recognize diverse types of evidence and knowledge sharing; (3) engaged facilitation is important to balance stakeholder input; and (4) transparency throughout the process is important to maintain trust. Significant influence of the tenants on the planning process and DD discussions was identified. This study situates DDs within the PPI literature and recommends them as a viable method of PPI worth further investigation.