Thoughts…
When I think about value management in healthcare, I’m reminded of the countless ways these principles have transformed not just systems, but lives. As someone deeply invested in improving healthcare, both professionally and personally, I’ve found inspiration in these five examples of success. They’re more than just case studies—they’re proof of what’s possible when we prioritize efficiency, evidence, and humanity.
5 Examples of Success in Value Management in Healthcare:
1. Intermountain Healthcare (United States): Leading with Data and Process
Intermountain Healthcare, based in Utah, holds a special place in the value management hall of fame. Why? Because they’ve mastered the art of blending clinical excellence with a relentless focus on outcomes.
- Reduced Costs and Improved Outcomes: Through standardized clinical protocols, Intermountain tackles chronic diseases like diabetes head-on. The result? Better control of blood sugar levels and fewer hospital admissions. When I first read about this, I couldn’t help but think of how many lives—and bank accounts—this approach has saved.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Intermountain’s commitment to analytics is awe-inspiring. They don’t just collect data; they use it to pinpoint problems and track the real impact of changes. It’s a lesson in how data can guide us toward smarter care.
2. Virginia Mason Medical Center (United States): Borrowing Brilliance from Industry
Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle shows us that great ideas don’t always start in healthcare. Inspired by lean manufacturing, their Virginia Mason Production System (VMPS) cuts through inefficiency to deliver exceptional care.
- Streamlined Processes: Take chemotherapy, for example. They’ve cut the administration time by more than 50%. That means more patients can get timely treatment—a change that hits close to home for anyone who’s ever waited nervously for care.
- Enhanced Patient Safety: By focusing on coordination and error reduction, they’ve improved safety and outcomes. Reading about this, I couldn’t help but wish every system had this level of dedication to doing things right.
3. National Health Service (NHS) (United Kingdom): Innovating at Scale
The NHS—a giant in global healthcare—has shown that value management can thrive even in sprawling systems. Their initiatives are a masterclass in balancing quality and efficiency.
- QIPP Program: By focusing on quality, innovation, productivity, and prevention, the NHS has reduced unnecessary admissions and optimized medication use. It’s an example of how small tweaks can ripple out to massive improvements.
- Integrated Care Models: By uniting primary, secondary, and social care, the NHS has shown that collaboration can reduce hospitalizations and improve satisfaction. It’s a powerful reminder that teamwork works.
4. Geisinger Health System (United States): Innovation with Proven Results
Geisinger Health System in Pennsylvania is a trailblazer, proving that value-based care is more than just a buzzword.
- ProvenCare® Program: This bundled payment model ensures no extra costs for follow-up care. It’s a win-win, encouraging best practices while reducing complications. It’s the kind of initiative that makes me hopeful for widespread change.
- Chronic Disease Management: Their diabetes programs demonstrate the power of proactive care. Better disease control and fewer hospitalizations? That’s the dream.
5. Southcentral Foundation (Alaska, United States): A Model Rooted in Community
The Nuka System of Care at Southcentral Foundation proves that value management doesn’t have to be impersonal. In fact, their approach is all about relationships.
- Patient-Centered Care: By prioritizing relationships and holistic health, they’ve achieved high satisfaction and better outcomes. It’s a model that’s as inspiring as it is effective.
- Integrated Care Teams: Including behavioral health specialists and traditional healers in care teams ensures a comprehensive approach to chronic conditions. This resonates deeply with my belief in the power of collaboration.
My Takeaway
These five examples aren’t just inspiring—they’re a blueprint for what’s possible in healthcare. They show us that by focusing on efficiency, patient-centered care, and evidence-based practices, we can achieve extraordinary results. For me, these stories fuel the belief that value management isn’t just an ideal; it’s a necessity.
As we grapple with rising costs and increasing demands, let’s look to these pioneers for guidance. They remind us that transformation is possible, and the rewards are worth the effort. If you’re curious to learn more or explore how to apply these principles, check out my book, Value Management in Healthcare, and join me in reimagining what’s possible.
Note, I’m exploring Netherlands for Type I diabetes treatment for my son and will let you know if they also have successful outcomes.
Writing a book on the topic of how to implement Value Management in Healthcare at scale was a simple way of codifying the process for others to also focus on changing the healthcare landscape. Check it out here: https://nathantierney.com/product/value-management-in-healthcare/ or on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ABEOvD