FAQ EQ-5D-3L
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All questions related to EQ-5D+3L
General
What is the difference between the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system, the EQ VAS and the EQ-5D index values?The descriptive system section of the EQ-5D questionnaire produces a 5-digit health state profile that represents the level of reported problems on each of the five dimensions of health, e.g.EQ-5D-5L health state 21143 represents a patient who indicates slight problems on the mobility dimension, no problems on the self-care and usual activities dimensions, severe pain or discomfort and moderate problems on the anxiety/depression dimension. These health states can be converted into a single index value using one of the standard EQ-5D-5L value sets. These value sets reflect the preferences of the general population. In contrast, the EQ VAS scores are self-reported and are therefore not representative of the general population. The EQ VAS self-rating records the respondent’s own assessment of their health status. Furthermore, the EQ VAS scores are anchored on 100 = the best health you can imagine and 0 = the worst health you can imagine, whereas the value sets are anchored on 11111 = 1 (representing full health) and dead = 0 and can therefore be used in QALY calculations.
What is the difference between the EQ-5D-3L descriptive system, the EQ VAS and the EQ-5D index values?The descriptive system can be represented as a health state, e.g. health state 11212 represents a patient who indicates some problems on the usual activities and anxiety/depression dimensions. These health states can be converted into a single index value using (one of) the available EQ-5D-3L value sets. These value sets have been derived using VAS or TTO valuation techniques, and they reflect the opinion of the general population. In contrast, the EQ VAS scores are patient-based and are therefore not representative of the general population. The EQ VAS self-rating records the respondent’s own assessment of their health status. Furthermore, the EQ VAS scores are anchored on 100 = best imaginable health and 0 = worst imaginable health, whereas the value sets are anchored on 11111 = 1 and dead = 0 and can therefore be used in QALY calculations.
What is a value set?A list of the value for every possible EQ-5D profile within a given descriptive system. For example, a value set for the EQ-5D-5L shows a value for each of the 3,125 states that are described by it. These values are usually calculated using an algorithm that assigns a score to each level in each dimension, sometimes including adjustments for interactions between the dimensions.
As value sets represent the average values of a sample of people, for example the general public of a particular country/region, it is important to state which value set is being used.
Value sets are also sometimes referred to as ‘tariffs’.
What does the EQ-5D stand for?EQ-5D is the name of the instrument and is not an acronym. EQ-5D is the correct term to use in print or verbally.
Once I have registered, what will be included in the contents of the EQ-5D package of information that will be sent to me? If in a digital mode of administration, how will that be shared with me/in what form?The EuroQol Office team will determine if a license agreement needs to be drawn up and whether a license fee is applicable, in accordance with our EQ-5D User License Policy.
EQ-5D paper versions will be provided as a Word document. For electronic versions, an Excel sheet will be provided with the EQ-5D labels, together with a document describing the EQ-5D electronic representation standards. The EQ-5D Demo versions on the website were created fully in line with our standards, so you can check how EQ-5D should look like on your system.