Applying Health Economics and Outcomes Research Methods in Value-Based Healthcare Implementation: An ISPOR Special Task Force Report

Objectives: Value-Based Healthcare (VBHC) aims to improve patient outcomes relative to the costs of delivering care; yet, its implementation has often evolved separately from the methodological rigor of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR). This ISPOR Special Task Force report provides good practice recommendations for integrating HEOR methods into VBHC implementation to enhance analytic transparency, patient-centeredness, and value measurement across healthcare systems. Methods: A mixed-methods approach combined a targeted literature review (109 studies), semistructured interviews with 24 international experts, and a structured survey of a 9-member Expert Advisory Board. The review covered conceptual, white, and empirical articles exploring intersections between VBHC and HEOR, whereas qualitative inputs identified methodological gaps and opportunities for synergy. Results: Two-thirds of empirical VBHC studies applied HEOR methods—primarily cost analyses—yet, comprehensive economic evaluations were rare. Experts emphasized that HEOR’s strengths in incentive design, costing methodologies, and outcomes evaluation could advance VBHC implementation. Conversely, VBHC’s focus on patient-centered outcomes can help HEOR evolve toward greater relevance and impact. The Special Task Force developed actionable recommendations and an “IMPACT” checklist to guide the integration of HEOR methods into VBHC design, implementation, and evaluation. Conclusions: HEOR provides a robust methodological foundation for VBHC by improving measurement of outcomes, costs, and value across care pathways. Aligning these disciplines can foster transparent, evidence-based, and patient-centered healthcare transformation and supporting sustainable, high-value health systems worldwide.