Chronic Kidney Disease: Exploring Value-Based Healthcare as a Potential Viable Solution

Abstract

Background: Increasing healthcare expenditures have triggered a trend from volume to value by linking patient outcome to costs. This concept first described as value-based healthcare (VBHC) by Michael Porter is especially applicable for chronic conditions. This article aims to explore the applicability of the VBHC framework to the chronic kidney disease (CKD) care area. Methods: The 4 dimensions of VBHC (measure value; set and communicate value benchmarking; coordinate care; payment to reward value-add) were explored for the CKD care area. Available data was reviewed focusing on CKD initiatives in Europe to assess to what extent each of the 4 dimensions of VBHC have been applied in practice. Results: Translating VBHC into value-based renal care (VBRC) seems to be initiated to a limited extent in European health systems. In most cases not all dimensions of VBHC have been utilized in the renal care initiatives. Conclusion: The translation of VBHC into VBRC is possible and even desirable if an optimal treatment pathway for CKD patients could be achieved. This would require an organizational change in health system set up and should include a strategy focusing on full care responsibility. The patient outcome perspective and health economic analysis need to be the centre of attention.