Medical nutrition therapy in the context of value-based healthcare / 中华临床营养杂志

ABSTRACT

The purpose of value-based healthcare is to effectively control medical costs on the basis of comprehensively improved healthcare quality, which is the key focus of medical system reform in China. Improving information system framework, establishing scientific evaluation methods and transforming medical insurance payment methods are the impetus for value-based healthcare practice in China. "Screening, assessment and intervention" is the critical step in standardized medical nutrition management. In line with the connotation of value-based healthcare, nutritional risk screening aims to improve clinical outcomes. The diagnosis of malnutrition per the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria enables the inclusion into Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs). Oral nutritional supplement is the preferred medical nutrition treatment for patients at nutritional risk or with malnutrition and insufficient food intake. Standardized application can reduce weight loss, improve clinical outcomes, save medical costs and improve the health and survival of malnourished elderly patients at a lower cost, exemplifying the value-based healthcare model.