The surprising politics of learning health systems

Abstract

Learning Health Systems (LHS) are an increasingly common element of health policy reform efforts in a number of jurisdictions. There is little disagreement around the LHS vision, and early adopters provide some development guidance. Despite the attractiveness of the LHS vision, progress on adoption by systems remains slow. In this commentary, we consider one potential reason, namely politics, or the ways in which government bodies, interest groups, and political ideas shape structures and policies. LHS can change the ways that health systems work and interact with payors and populations and thereby create political challenges. The need for upfront new investment to build capacity for LHS activities, the creation of new partnerships or collaborations, increased transparency, and the direct engagement of populations can all create political risks and subsequent barriers. With a broad population health focus that extends across typical political cycles, politics may create an even greater barrier. We suggest that building strong engagement, clear and transparent accountabilities, communities of practice and other vehicles to promote data sharing and transparency, and careful attention to risk management may all help reduce political challenges. Some sets of policies—like value-based care—can support these sorts of changes and accelerate the adoption of LHS.