Value Specification process

Building on these insights, the value specification phase aims to identify what stakeholders consider important in a future healthcare innovation. These values are subsequently translated into concrete requirements that can guide design, development, implementation, and evaluation activities in collaboration with prospective end-users and other relevant stakeholders. This helps ensure that innovations align with the needs and preferences of those who use, deliver, and support them.

A summary of the study that resulted in the value categories, values, and requirements presented on this website can be found below:

About a use case of the value specification phase

Preventing COPD exacerbations is crucial for maintaining patient well-being and reducing healthcare burden. To support early detection, a non-invasive breath analysis device is being co-created with patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) for use in remote patient monitoring (RPM).

Within the value specification phase, patients (n=63) and HCPs (n=42) were involved in three qualitative research activities: interviews, focus groups, patient and public involvement sessions. These activities focused on: 1) exploring and identifying key values; 2) validating and refining these values; and 3) translating values into concrete requirements.

Participants highlighted 38 values related to the device and care process, which were grouped into nine categories;

• Patient-centered care and patient outcomes

• User-friendliness and inclusivity

• Agreements on RPM responsibilities

• Patient empowerment

• Information provision and guidance

• Enhanced care efficiency

• Implementation process

• HCP care provision

• Safety and reliability

Patients and HCPs subsequently translated these values into 142 concrete products* (e.g., easy to clean)- and process** (e.g., group training before use) requirements.

This case study shows the value of involving patients and HCPs from the very beginning when developing RPM solutions and other healthcare innovations. By working closely with the people who will ultimately use these solutions, we can ensure that they reflect their needs, values, and preferences, while fitting into existing COPD care processes.

The insights from this case study can serve as a useful example for future co-creation projects and provide a strong foundation for developing other innovations in COPD and chronic pulmonary care. Most importantly, involving prospective end-users from the start helps ensure that the solutions we develop are relevant, meaningful, and aligned with the realities of everyday care.

*hard-and software of the product, including physical device, application, dashboard
**process of remote patient monitoring in COPD exacerbation care (e.g., communication between HCP and patient)