Embracing value co-creation in primary care services research: a framework for success

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Implementation Science
• Collaborative Research

Background:

• Researcher-driven research may overlook end-user needs and values.
• Value co-creation addresses this gap by involving stakeholders throughout the research process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application and outcomes of value co-creation strategies.
• To identify key lessons learned from implementing value co-creation in primary care research.

Main Methods:

• The Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Building Primary Care Quality, Performance and Sustainability employed value co-creation principles.
• This involved regular, ongoing interactions with multiple stakeholders.

Main Results:

• Co-created outcomes included strong partnerships, end-user relevant findings (e.g., Primary Care Practice Improvement Tool), an International Implementation Research Network, and a conference.
• The process fostered innovation, increased productivity, and created a "win more-win more" environment.

Conclusions:

• Successful value co-creation requires significant investment in time and effort for meaningful interactions.
• Effective research management, including governance, leadership, and communication, must be co-creative.
• Cross-sectoral collaboration necessitates openness, understanding, flexibility, fairness, and transparency.