
Leaders from health systems, ACOs, and provider organizations driving measurable outcomes in value-based care
Executives at payers and technology companies building the infrastructure of tomorrow's care delivery
Policy leaders and researchers shaping the legislative and regulatory environment for value-based models
Founders and investors backing the next generation of value-based care innovation
Honesty is the foundation of trust and trust is the foundation of good outcomes in VBC. Performance will be judged not only on utilization but on consumer experience in years to come.
Value based care is the future of health care. It’s not just a different way of paying providers but its construct can solve many of our the problems facing our health care system from reducing provider burden to making our citizens healthier. It creates financial alignment between payers and providers to drive better outcomes while lowering costs.
For value-based payment to achieve its promise we must work to create a system where all play by the same rules and uniform benefits, enrollment with primary-care focused systems, capitation, and meaningful measures create competitive markets that reward only those who deliver better, cheaper care.
It’s an honor to be recognized with such a distinguished group of colleagues. Value Based Care continues to evolve but never at the pace we desire. We must continue to be resilient in our pursuit and drive forward that improving efficiency, quality and consumer experience can not be accomplished without — nor come at the expense of — clinician well being.

The Top 50 Value-Based Care Thinkers of 2026
Full profiles of the 50 honorees selected by an unbiased, expert judging panel.

Executive Profiles & Perspectives
In-depth features on each honoree's work, philosophy, and contributions to the field.

Insights into Emerging Care Models
Spotlight on innovative care delivery approaches gaining traction across the industry.

Future Outlook on Value-Based Care
Expert perspectives on the forces shaping value-based care over the next decade.
Open Nominations
The process begins with an open nomination period, allowing the healthcare community to nominate leaders making a significant impact in value-based care.
Independent Judging Panel Review
A diverse panel of judges with deep healthcare expertise evaluates all nominations against defined criteria.
Evaluation of Leadership Impact
Judges assess each nominee's demonstrated leadership, strategic influence, and measurable impact on value-based care outcomes and delivery models.
Assessment of VBC Contributions
Special weight is given to contributions that advance the broader value-based care movement — including policy engagement, research, and ecosystem building.

Selection Criteria
Nominees are evaluated on leadership, innovation, execution, and contributions to advancing value-based care across the healthcare system.
May 12, 2026
By invitation only — current and past Top 50 honorees
A private gathering of influential voices in value-based care

A curated gathering where awardees connect, exchange ideas, and advance the future of value-based care over dinner.