Validation Study of a Value-Based Digital Health Questionnaire

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jun 8;19(12):7034. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19127034.

Abstract

The paradigm of value-based health care is spreading worldwide; however, Value-Based Digital Health (VBDH) is still an emerging concept. VBDH is understood as the use of digital tools to facilitate the generation of value in health. It is accelerated by technological change, cultural, and organizational factors. An accurate diagnosis of the organizational VBDH maturity is crucial to define and implement strategic actions to progress with VBDH transformation. This study aimed to validate a VBDH questionnaire, which measures the degree of maturity of VBDH from the perspective of managers (N = 146) in Spanish healthcare organizations. Results show good internal consistency of the questionnaire. Factor analysis identified seven dimensions to measure VBHC maturity: (1) Resources, incentives, and financing; (2) Knowledge and participation of patients and workers in the strategy of progress towards VBDH; (3) Training of professionals and tool knowledge for advancement in VBDH; (4) Innovation initiatives; (5) Information and its quality; (6) Leadership, strategy and governance; and (7) Knowledge of the fundamentals and objectives, as well as access to relevant VBDH information. The questionnaire presents good validity and internal consistency and meets the requirements to be an instrument for routine use to assess VBDH organizational maturity.

Keywords: healthcare organizations; questionnaire validation; value-based digital health; value-based healthcare.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care*
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Humans
  • Leadership*
  • Organizations
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Grants and funding

This research was funded by the Spanish Digital Health Association (Asociación de Salud Digital) that provided funds to the University of Deusto to conduct the study (project code reference #9238).