OBJECTIVES: Value-based healthcare (VBHC) shifts the paradigm from a supply-driven model to a patient-centered one, enabling decision makers to make the best use of finite resources while achieving improved outcomes. In this study we assessed the status of implementation of common VBHC domains in Colombia.

METHODS: Regulations, policies, assessment reports and other publicly available documentation were reviewed in Colombia to establish country performance on six VBHC domains: Enabling policies, integrated healthcare, patient-centered outcome measurements, alternative payment models, Information technology infrastructure and stakeholder engagement.

RESULTS: Favorable policies such as universal health coverage and the presence of a Health Technology Assessment body independent of payers/providers were found. The implementation of integrated healthcare has been one of the biggest challenges due to the fragmentation of the healthcare system. However, it is worth highlighting the recent health reforms that are shifting the paradigm towards integrated care delivery. Colombia has a robust healthcare information system; however, the availability of outcome data is still low. Different healthcare quality indicators are measured, most of them are mainly focused on process indicators, and the use of structured electronic health records appears to be limited. Regarding the cost measurements, information is collected on the use of health resources, as well as the cost of health services provided and health technologies. Capitation and fee-for-service payments are the most used payment models, although payers report outcomes-based and bundled payment initiatives. Finally, no formal stakeholder training on VBHC was identified.

CONCLUSIONS: In Colombia, progress has been made in some of the individual domains of value-based health. There is a need to promote more initiatives to enable a successful transition to a value-based health system, specifically in the domains of integrated healthcare and stakeholder engagement. This diagnosis is important in view of the forthcoming health reforms in Colombia.