Patient participation in value-based healthcare: Towards an integral aspect of value improvement

In this thesis, we explored how to improve patient participation within the context of VBHC. While previous studies have highlighted the challenges of patient participation and called for practical guidance, our research aimed to bridge this gap by offering concrete lessons and insights in individual and collective patient participation in the context of VBHC. Overall, our findings highlight opportunities to more fully integrate patient participation as an integral aspect of value improvement and care delivery. Based on the insights of the studies in this thesis, we derived five steps to help to ensure structural and meaningful patient participation in VBHC:
1. Ensure that preconditions for patient participation are met
2. Develop a strategy for patient participation
3. Prepare patients and staff for patient participation
4. Put patient participation into action
5. Evaluate patient participation with both patients and staff
In conclusion, this thesis offers valuable lessons to improve patient participation. Wide adoption of these lessons contribute to healthcare improvements that genuinely reflect patient needs and preferences.