Navigating value complexity in care pathway development: a qualitative case study

This study illustrates how value complexity unfolds in CP development and underscores the importance of ongoing stakeholder management, reflectivity, formative evaluation and dialogue. Greenhalgh <i>et al</i>'s rules of thumb provided interpretive value in exploring these complexities but require a solid theoretical understanding and an awareness of the rules' interrelationships. A complexity-informed approach integrating ongoing reflection and adaptability can enrich CP development methodologies, enabling healthcare professionals and action researchers to engage constructively with value complexity in complex change processes. Further research is needed to develop and implement practical strategies for enhancing stakeholder engagement and decision-making in diverse healthcare settings.