A model for value creation: key role of the users as co-producers of e-health services

This paper engages in a reflection on the concept of 'E-health care' by analysing it from the point of view of its value. What is the meaning acquired by the concept of value in this context? And are e-health care platforms able to create value for their patients? The Internet and the IT have incredibly changed how healthcare can be delivered. E-health programs have been, in fact, experimented in order to improve the quality of the care and patient outcomes. The aim of this paper is to understand, how e-healthcare platforms can generate value thanks to the active role of its users. Implications will be discussed and a model of value creation will be developed.