To Drive Value-Based Healthcare, We Must First Redefine It

"Value-based care" has been emphasized in the U.S. healthcare system through legislative acts like MIPPA and the ACA, aiming to reduce costs by focusing on health maintenance. Patients often misunderstand the concept, linking value with cost and believing healthcare is only necessary when sick. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in establishing trust-based relationships with patients to focus on prevention. Transformative models in chronic disease management, such as cardiovascular and kidney diseases, can save costs and improve patient outcomes. Integrating behavioral health services into primary care can also yield significant savings. Embracing technology like EHRs and telehealth is essential for efficient care delivery. Success in transitioning to value-based care requires collaboration across healthcare sectors and a patient-centered approach to improve healthcare outcomes while reducing costs.