Practical Strategies to Assess Value in Health Care

The concept of "value" is at the center of many activities and decisions in health care in the US, and this book provides a deeper understanding of value as a concept and an endeavor within the healthcare industry. It explores theories of economics and implementation science and offers practical suggestions for real-world applications. The book consists of 9 chapters organized in four sections and is an essential resource for healthcare professionals interested in assessing and interpreting value for a particular situation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 163 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The concept of "value" holds significant importance in various aspects of healthcare in the United States. While there exist resources that provide detailed technical guidance on conducting specific value assessments, such as cost-effectiveness or return on investment, there is a scarcity of literature that aims to equip healthcare professionals with the skills to think critically about value. This book seeks to bridge that gap by offering a comprehensive exploration of value as a concept and an endeavor within the healthcare industry. By presenting the diverse components of value that should inform decision-making processes in policy, infrastructure, and quality improvement, this text aims to provide a deeper understanding of value and its role in shaping healthcare outcomes.

Through an interdisciplinary approach, the book combines theories of economics and implementation science with practical suggestions for real-world applications. It serves as a foundation for the ongoing "value" journey that the US has embarked upon, emphasizing the need to move beyond the simplistic definition of value as merely "quality per dollar spent." Instead, a more adaptable framework is required that can account for diverse perspectives and circumstances.

The book is structured into nine chapters, organized into four sections:

Part I: Understanding the Challenges of Assessing the Value of Health Care
In this section, the book delves into the complexities and challenges associated with assessing the value of healthcare. It explores the various dimensions of value, including clinical outcomes, patient experience, social benefits, and economic considerations. It also examines the ethical and policy implications of value assessment and highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers the perspectives of all stakeholders.

Part II: A Primer on Fundamental Concepts and Current Techniques Used to Measure Value in Health Care
This section provides a foundational understanding of the concepts and techniques used to measure value in healthcare. It covers topics such as cost-benefit analysis, cost-effectiveness analysis, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). It also discusses the limitations and challenges of these methods and highlights the importance of selecting the most appropriate tool for each specific context.

Part III: A Discussion of the Real-world Motivations and Requirements that Should be Contemplated when Exploring Value
In this section, the book explores the real-world motivations and requirements that should be considered when exploring value in healthcare. It examines the various stakeholders involved in healthcare decision-making, including patients, providers, payers, policymakers, and society. It also discusses the importance of engaging stakeholders in the value assessment process and the need for transparent and accountable decision-making.

Part IV: How to Design and Perform a Value Ass.
This section provides practical guidance on designing and performing a value assessment. It covers topics such as identifying the research question, selecting appropriate methodologies, data collection and analysis, and interpreting and communicating the findings. It also emphasizes the importance of considering the context, stakeholders, and ethical considerations when conducting a value assessment.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable resource for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers seeking to understand and navigate the complex landscape of value in healthcare. By providing a comprehensive exploration of value as a concept and an endeavor, it aims to equip readers with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions that prioritize patient-centered care and promote the overall well-being of society.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 155 x 236 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030951511
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022