TRANSLATING KNOWLEDGE INTO POLICY: THE CASE OF VALUE BASED INSURANCE DESIGN

Format Requirements: The class will include presentations on 1) the background and theory of Value Based Insurance Design 2) conducting and disseminating information relevant to VBID 3) effectively advocately for policy around health related concepts The course will include case studies and group discussion and is intended for those interested in both VBID and the broader concepts of translating research evidence into practice and policy.

In order to apply science to advance policy and practice, it is no longer sufficient to conduct research, write up the results and present them to academic audiences. The work has to be applied by those responsible for the care of diverse populations. 

The basic V-BID premise is to align patients’ out-of-pocket costs, such as copays and premiums, with the value of health services.  This course will introduce attendees to the concepts of clinical nuance in insurance design, how to develop evidence to support these designs, how to disseminate that information and how to effectively advocate for adoption of health policy changes that improve health care behaviors and may carry cost savings.

The course will present the economic theory behind VBID and alternative approaches to design, including adaptations for pharmaceuticals, care management, devices and procedures. It will provide researchers with guidance on how to collect and present evidence that matters for those making implementation and policy decisions, including how to incorporate clinical considerations with economic theory to outline effective research to support Value Based Insurance Design. In addition, participants will learn about collaboration with stakeholders, policymakers, payers and practitioners to build their considerations into research design. Finally, the course will present information on gathering feedback from partners to ensure that research remains relevant over time.

Participants in the short course will gain an understanding of the theory of Value Based Insurance Design, alternative approaches to designing and implementing VBID programs and information on how to advocate effectively for health policy related issues.