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What is the value of value dialogues? An interview study exploring a collaborative approach with patients and professionals supporting values-driven healthcare in a tertiary care hospital

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives Value dialogues are a participatory method in which patients and healthcare professionals jointly explore experiences, values and perspectives on care. This study aimed to explore how participants experienced the value of value dialogues and thereby to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how participatory dialogue may support a more patient-centred and values-driven approach to value-based healthcare. Design A qualitative interview study followed by thematic (inductive) analysis conducted by two researchers. Setting A tertiary care hospital in the Netherlands. Participants 33 individuals were interviewed: 25 professionals (including physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, managers), 7 patients and 1 guardian, all of whom participated in one of five value dialogue trajectories. Results The perceived value of value dialogues can be captured in six main themes: (1) gaining insight and understanding into others’ perspectives and experiences and (2) sharing one’s own perspective were valued in their own right and could contribute to (3) reflecting and (4) experiencing improved connection with colleagues. Participants also mentioned (5) experiencing potential for change and (6) a sense of meaning and purpose. Contributing factors to experiencing value included equality in the conversation and the central role of patient stories. Conclusions Value dialogues may contribute to value-based healthcare by making explicit what matters to patients and professionals in the everyday practice of care and by translating these insights into opportunities for learning and improvement. To strengthen their contribution to organisational learning and care improvement, value dialogues should combine a carefully facilitated reflective process with clear goals, sustained engagement and systematic follow-up.

Source: BMJ Open

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2025-110901

Authors: Inger L Abma, Anne-Miek Vroom, Maud Heinen, A Stef Groenewoud, Philip J Van der Wees

Institutions: Radboud University Medical Center, Theological University Utrecht

Language: English

Topic: Patient-Provider Communication in Healthcare

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,839