How do EQ-5D-5L value sets differ?

Abstract

This chapter aims to explore the differences in EQ-5D-5L value sets between countries/areas, and to investigate whether common patterns can be identified between them. EQ-5D-5L value sets for 25 countries/areas were extracted from published literature. These national value sets were compared on key characteristics, such as: the relative importance of the EQ-5D-5L dimensions; the value scale length and the distribution of values over the value scale. Using these characteristics, distinct preference patterns were identified for Asian, Eastern European and Western countries/areas. The Asian countries/areas were split into East Asian and Southeast Asian countries/areas, as these subgroups shared similar characteristics. Using mean values for countries/areas with similar preference patterns, several aggregate value sets were generated. These aggregate value sets describe mean values for all 3125 health states described by the EQ-5D-5L for countries/areas with similar preference patterns. Applying these values to EQ-5D-5L profile data for 7933 respondents in an international survey showed that these aggregate value sets represent the individual national value sets relatively well. This chapter identified large differences between value sets, yet was able to identify common preference patterns between selected countries/areas.