Editorial: Value-based healthcare in Sweden
Value-based healthcare (VBHC) defines the value of care as the relation between the health outcome for the patient and the cost of care. By focusing on health outcomes rather than volumes, VBHC could help healthcare providers manage cost increases, make the best use of finite resources, and deliver improved care to patients. While the rationale for implementing a VBHC model is strengthening, it requires a paradigm shift from a supply-driven model to a more patient-centered system.
In 2016, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) made a global assessment of VBHC in 25 countries. The study evaluated the presence of enabling infrastructure, outcomes measures, and payment systems that support value-based care. Sweden was the only country that emerged with very high alignment to a VBHC framework.
Sveus is one example of this alignment. It started as a cooperative research and development project, the aim of which was to develop better methods for measuring and monitoring value in healthcare to achieve the best possible health outcomes for the patients. It resulted in an analysis platform which links healthcare data from several real-time sources and gives participating care providers a unique tool for follow-up and organizational development. Additionally, VBHC as a steering model is currently being introduced in several Swedish hospitals such as Akademiska University Hospital in Uppsala, Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, and the New Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. Details of the ongoing work with VBHC can be found in the article included in this edition of Market Access Monitor.