This qualitative research project will explore how Value Based Health and Care (VBHC) and Realistic Medicine are understood, interpreted and enabled by the multiple professions involved in the planning and delivery of care – not just those who provide care, but all professionals including managers, financial and procurement professionals across Scotland’s health and social care system. In addition to examining how VBHC is conceptualised, the project will focus on what motivates (or discourages) individuals from delivering value‑based care in practice. Attention will be given to how variation in understanding, motivation and perceived constraints shape everyday decision‑making, and leadership behaviours. 
The intern will work within the Scottish Government's Realistic Medicine Policy team, contributing to a wider programme of work aimed at strengthening the practise of Realistic Medicine and delivery of VBHC and across the system. The primary research method will involve semi‑structured interviews with senior leaders and health and care professionals (Grade 8a and above) across the NHS and social care in Scotland, reflecting the critical yet under‑researched role that this workforce plays in enabling or resisting change. Findings will inform practical recommendations relating to leadership and ways of embedding Realistic medicine and VBHC within existing practice, with the aim of fostering shared understanding and inform the next steps that will further implementation.