Certified in Public Health (CPH) Practice Exam

What is true about an incremental approach to program planning in public health?

1. Uses multiple sources and methods to collect similar information

2. Results in plans that may be redundant or leave gaps

3. Provides an intensive, detailed description and analysis of a single project

4. Produces a plan where the specification of every step depends upon the results of previous steps

The correct answer is: Results in plans that may be redundant or leave gaps

An incremental approach to program planning in public health is characterized by gradually developing plans by building on previous steps or decisions. This method often allows for adjustments as more information becomes available and is based on the understanding that plans can evolve over time. However, one common criticism of an incremental approach is that it can lead to plans that may be redundant or leave gaps. This is because, in trying to build upon each step incrementally, planners might repeat efforts or overlook addressing all necessary components comprehensively. This risk exists especially when previous steps do not clearly define all requirements for future steps, leading to potential omissions or overlaps in addressing public health needs. This understanding contrasts with more structured planning methods, where a complete assessment of the project is conducted upfront, minimizing the risk of redundancy and ensuring comprehensive coverage of topics. In the context of public health, where needs and data might change over time, an incremental approach can lead to evolving plans that don’t always maintain coherence, which supports the notion that it may produce redundant elements or cause gaps in the overall strategy.