Characteristics of Value-Based Oral Health Care: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Oral Health Research
• Health Services Research
• Dental Public Health

Background:

• Value-based oral health care (VBOHC) represents a paradigm shift from traditional fee-for-service models in dentistry.
• It prioritizes patient outcomes, preventive care, and cost-efficiency over service volume.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and synthesize the defining characteristics of VBOHC.
• To assess its potential to enhance patient outcomes, cost-efficiency, and care delivery in dental systems.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Searches across 6 databases included peer-reviewed quantitative and qualitative studies.
• Thematic analysis was applied to 50 included studies.

Main Results:

• VBOHC is characterized by prevention, early intervention, patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and outcome-based compensation.
• It improves long-term patient outcomes and reduces costs by emphasizing preventive care, especially for vulnerable populations.
• Transitioning requires operational changes for providers, including digital health integration and team-based care.

Conclusions:

• VBOHC is defined by patient empowerment and a patient-centered, whole-system approach.
• Successful implementation necessitates addressing challenges in transitioning from fee-for-service models.
• Policy reforms, provider support, and infrastructure investments are crucial for sustainable and equitable dental care delivery.