This document provides summary information which includes a set of guidelines for key performance indicators outlined in the Health Service Executives 2012 National Service Plan. These guidelines cover areas such as definition, rationale, reporting frequency, and data source.

Performance indicators (PI’s) are measurable indicators that demonstrate progress towards a specified target. They enable decision makers to assess progress towards the achievement of an outcome, objective or goal within an agreed timeframe.

Descriptions of some KPIs related to substance use:
• P.283 Total number of clients in methadone treatment (outside prisons) – NSP 2012 Target – 8,640
• P.284 Total number of clients in methadone treatment (prisons) - NSP 2012 Target – 520
• P.285 Percentage of substance misusers (over 18 yrs) for whom treatment has commenced within one calendar month following assessment - NSP 2012 target – 1260 (100%)
• P.286 Percentage of substance misusers (under 18 yrs) for whom treatment has commenced within two weeks following assessment
• P.290 Number of pharmacies recruited to provide Needle Exchange Programme (The national target is 65 pharmacies recruited by quarter 3 2012.)

Performance activities are published in monthly ‘Performance reports’ by the HSE.