Using Focus Groups to Evaluate a Self-Assessment Approach to Coproduction Value Creation in an International...

Coproduction learning health system models clearly define the use of clinical and patient-reported data for system learning and quality improvement, but less is known about how to document formative learning about coproduction value creation over the course of a quality improvement initiative. The authors aimed to 1) assess the feasibility, utility, and acceptability of novel self-assessment tools for coproduction value creation and 2) identify domains of coproduction value creation.

The authors conducted 4 focus groups with quality improvement teams from 4 health systems in the United States and Sweden between June 2021 and September 2023. A single analyst coded transcripts and proposed themes, with investigator triangulation validating results.

Participants found the self-assessment tools acceptable and useful. The improvement passport was seen as more feasible for routine use than the full self-assessment guide. Peer learning within the community of practice, diverse multidisciplinary improvement teams, and leadership support facilitated teams' work. Domains of coproduction value creation included communication, self-efficacy, interconnectedness, direct and indirect costs of health care utilization, health professional experience, and access to the right care.

Peer learning and camaraderie within the community of practice maintained momentum among participating teams during a challenging time of limited resources and mounting responsibilities in health care settings, suggesting enhanced resiliency through approaching difficult tasks in community.

The authors identified themes of coproduction value creation and drivers of engagement. Future research will draw on the measurement domains established in this study to inform the development of measures of coproduction value creation. Those measures could then be incorporated into the data-rich environments of coproduction learning health systems to enhance focus on value from service user and professional perspectives.