Learning health system benefits: Development and initial validation of a framework.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Translational Science

Background:

• Translating research findings into clinical practice is often delayed or incomplete.
• Learning health systems (LHSs) aim to integrate research and evidence-based practices for continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder engagement is crucial for LHS implementation, requiring clear value propositions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive framework detailing the benefits of LHSs for diverse stakeholders.
• To explicate the full range of LHS benefits and their manifestations in various organizational contexts.

Main Methods:

• A working group from six Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) hubs developed the framework.
• Methods included literature review, expert input, and application to local LHS experiences.

Main Results:

• The Framework of LHS Benefits encompasses six categories: quality, safety, equity, patient satisfaction, reputation, and value.
• The framework demonstrated face validity across varied LHS approaches in five case examples.
• It is relevant for defining LHS project goals, facilitating collaboration, and establishing program tenets.

Conclusions:

• The framework aids in communicating LHS value to diverse stakeholders across different contexts.
• It can guide the identification of future organizational priorities for LHS development.
• Further validation will refine the framework and support the development of LHS impact evaluation tools.