Effects of Medical–Financial Partnerships on Financial and Medical Outcomes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review synthesizes empirical evidence on the health and financial outcomes of Medical–Financial Partnerships to inform policy and practice. Method: We followed the Methodological Expectations of Campbell Collaboration Intervention Reviews to conduct this review. We searched 10 electronic databases through September 2023 to locate randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental studies. Risk of bias of the included studies was assessed with the Cochrane risk of bias tools. This review was registered with the Campbell Collaboration. Results: Two randomized controlled trials and two quasi-experimental designs including a total of 410 participants were included in the review. Evidence on health and financial impacts was limited due to the small number of studies and lack of effect size data. Results indicated small, nonsignificant effects on financial outcomes. Risk of bias varied. Discussion: Despite growing popularity, there is insufficient evidence to determine if Medical–Financial Partnerships are meeting their goals.