Predictors of EQ-5D-3L outcomes amongst injured Māori: 1-year post-injury findings from a New Zealand cohort study

Abstract

Purpose: Māori, the Indigenous population of New Zealand (NZ), are at higher risk of problems with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) 12 months following injury. This paper examines pre-injury sociodemographic and health characteristics and injury-related factors, including healthcare access, and their association with HRQoL outcomes 12 months after injury. Methods: The Prospective Outcomes of Injury Study recruited 2856 injured New Zealanders aged 18–64 years from the entitlement claims register of the country’s no-fault injury insurance agency. One-fifth (n = 566) of the cohort were Māori. Information on predictors and outcomes, with the exception of injury and hospitalisation, was obtained directly from participants at approximately 3 and 12 months post-injury. The outcomes of interest were responses to the five dimensions of the EQ-5D-3L and a dichotomous measure obtained by summing scored responses to each question. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify predictors of each outcome at 12 months post-injury. Results: Predictors differed by outcome. Being female, experiencing EQ-5D-3L problems pre-injury, having ≥ 2 chronic conditions pre-injury, perceiving one’s injury to be a threat of long-term disability, and having trouble accessing health services for injury were common predictors of EQ-5D-3L problems at 12 months post-injury for Māori. Conclusion: Opportunities exist to improve HRQoL outcomes by identifying individuals in the early stages of injury recovery who may benefit from further treatment and support.