Value co-creation as a service element in the context of health: a systematic review

Purpose The purpose of this study is to comprehensively analyze literature on value co-creation within the health-care sector. This study investigates methodologies, identifies emerging trends, highlights research gaps and evaluates prior studies’ contributions. Additionally, this study proposes an integrative framework synthesizing key dimensions of value co-creation – stakeholder engagement, innovation and collaboration processes and outcomes – emphasizing their interactions in enhancing health-care system sustainability. Design/methodology/approach Following PRISMA guidelines, this study systematically reviewed literature on health-care value co-creation up to February 2024 using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science. This paper analyzed publication trends, methodologies and study contributions. VOSviewer facilitated bibliometric analysis, while IRAMUTEQ supported textual analysis of abstracts. Findings Quantitative studies used adapted scales, particularly structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Qualitative research used semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis. Mixed methods integrated these approaches to deepen understanding. Studies predominantly used purposive sampling to assess value co-creation impacts. Originality/value The integrative framework offers significant managerial and social implications. For managers, it underscores collaborative environments, empathy training, participatory technologies and continuous feedback tools. Socially, it promotes health-care system inclusion, equity and trust by empowering patients and fostering democratic governance. This study identifies research gaps, including limited diversity in study populations and geographic concentration, suggesting future investigations into long-term co-creation impacts, technological mediation, ethical challenges and culturally sensitive practices. This paper integrates insights from public health, management and digital innovation, proposing methodological guidelines for future research.