What do patient values and preferences mean?  A taxonomy based on a systematic review of qualitative papers. 
In order to deliver good healthcare quality, it should explicitly be taken into account what patients value in healthcare.  This study reviews qualitative studies in which patients express what they value.  Based on this body of literature a preliminary taxonomy is designed.  A systematic review of qualitative papers on what patients' value.  22 studies out of a total of 3259 met the inclusion criteria.  After critical appraisal, data extraction was carried out by two researchers independently and revealed values related to 1) the individual patient; 2) the expected behavior of professionals and 3) the interaction between patients and professionals.  Seven key elements were recognized on the bases of content analysis; 1) uniqueness, 2) autonomy, 3) compassion, 4) professionalism, 5) responsiveness, 6) partnership and 7) empowerment.  This study gives a rich insight into what patients value in various contexts and provides a promising taxonomy in line with patient centered based theories.  The taxonomy needs further empirical research for a deeper insight and clarifaction in its elements.  This review and preliminary taxonomy contribute to the conceptualization of patient values as a bases for guidelines, policy and daily practice.