FACILITATING RANDOM ASSIGNMENT IN A COMMUNITY-HEALTH EDUCATION PROJECT

Although random assignment is a common practice in clinical research, barriers associated with its cost and complexity often preclude its us e in evaluating community health projects. This article describes proc edures for achieving random assignment in a community health project t hat tested educational interventions to encourage parents to obtain we ll-child care through the Medicaid program. Using a state-level Medica id database supplemented by local program data, staff members from soc ial services offices and the research project implemented the procedur es, which entailed only a modest burden for clerical staff. The proced ures may be adapted for use in other community health projects.