Applying value chain thinking to social drivers of health: A framework and two case studies

Value chain thinking is an essential component to bring about successful collaboration among the distinct stakeholders involved in social drivers of health programs. Two case studies describe the importance of grounding such efforts in the value propositions that matter to the participants (patients or health plan members) and the partners (health care providers, payers, and community-based organizations) and, accordingly, of minimizing the friction that may be associated with the linking of the various program components. By developing a tailored value chain so that each activity advances the value proposition and by implementing a dynamic, iterative measure, test, and learn process, leaders can achieve sustainable success.