EPISODE

Unlocking Value in US Health Care

Many people think of “value” as a simple equation: quality divided by costs. But not every policy scheme with “value” in its name delivers what the label implies. A health economist helps us update our value vocabulary to understand what’s really happening in the health economy.

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About The Guest

Episode Description

This week on Quality Matters, Andy Reynolds is joined by Sanjula Jain, Chief Research Officer at Trilliant Health, for an illuminating discussion of the health economy’s challenges and opportunities.

Sanjula unpacks the misalignment of costs, value and quality, clarifying buzzwords like “value-based care” with sharp analysis and relatable analogies. From the unsustainable rise in health care costs to the flawed belief that higher prices mean better outcomes, she sheds light on the system’s failings while offering a practical framework for change.   Sanjula ends with an optimistic appeal to employers, voters and innovators to drive a new era of value-focused health care.

Think about the airline industry and retailing, large consumer brands. They’re constantly having to think about value and there ends up being fewer players.

It’s going to be interesting to see who is up for competing. Those who don’t figure out a way to change their approach are going to be at a disadvantage. Nobody wants to say, “You are going to fail.” No one likes to talk about the bad things coming our way. But I view it as a warning.

Hopefully some players are starting to think differently and understand nuances of their markets and how they can optimize. Because the optimization equation is going to look different for everybody.

Sanjula Jain

Dive Deeper

Timestamps

(02:05) Understanding Health Care Costs and Value
(03:51) Value for Money vs. Value-Based Care
(06:20) Optimizing vs. Maximizing Value
(11:10) What Most People Get Wrong About Value
(13:24) Quality Measurement and Digital Solutions