Communication Strategies That Reduce Conflicts Due to the complex nature of the U.S. federal, state, and local political environ- ments, the expanse of social programs, and the ongoing quality-focused healthcare delivery revolution, difficult ethical conflicts are bound to occur.
Social programs tend to engage stakeholders who range from savvy political and social leaders to healthcare workers, staff, and program recipients—and each of these parties requires an understanding of how a given program or policy is applicable to them.
Clarke (1999) suggested five strategies related to communication that can reduce conflict and ethical risks during program evaluation:
1. Identify specific cultural, political, and social environmental factors to address critical aspects of program evaluation.
2. Identify stakeholders and ensure objectives and goals of the project are established and communicated routinely and consistently to all.
3. Recognize the potential for conflicts among stakeholders and diplo- matically address any contentious issues promptly.
