Deriving utility weights for the EQ-5D-5L using a discrete choice experiment. CHERE Working Paper 2012/01

Purpose: To estimate an Australian algorithm for the newly developed 5-level version of the EQ-5D, for use in the economic evaluation of health and healthcare interventions. Methods: A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was run in an online Australian-representative sample. A random-effects probit model was estimated, and converted to a zero to one scale for use in economic evaluation. Results: At least one choice set was completed by 944 respondents, of which 932 completed all ten choice sets. The mean and median completion times were 17.9 and 9.4 minutes respectively, demonstrating a highly skewed pattern. Respondents were slightly younger and better-educated than the general Australian population. The regression results broadly reflect the monotonic nature of the EQ-5D-5L. Utility increases in life expectancy, and decreases in higher levels in each dimension of the instrument. A high proportion of respondents found the task clear and relatively easy to complete. Conclusions: DCEs are a valuable approach in the estimation of utility weights for multi-attribute utility instruments such as the EQ-5D-5L.