Problem-Intervention-Outcome Meta-Model (PIO MM): A Conceptual Meta-Model for Intervention Effectiveness Research, Quality Improvement Activities, and Program Evaluation

In Chap. 1 , we examined conceptualizations at the intersection of intervention effectiveness research, health care quality improvement, and program evaluation. This chapter introduces the Problem-Intervention-Outcome Meta-Model (PIO MM) as a theoretical foundation for a project that aims to demonstrate intervention effectiveness and/or outcomes for a particular population of interest within a given context. The PIO MM is presented with definitions and information about how it will be used throughout this book in the context of intervention effectiveness research, quality improvement activities, and program evaluation. Relationships between PIO MM, study design, change theory, and PICOT Format are examined.