Comparing EQ-5D-3L and EQ-5D-5L value sets

Even though less people report full health on the EQ-5D-5L, as compared to the EQ-5D-3L, the average severity of reported problems is also less (i.e. slight problems instead of moderate problems). Implications for how scores obtained from the 3L and 5L compare depend on the values attached to certain health state and this varies across country/region. In some countries/regions, 3L and 5L results will be similar, while in other countries/regions 3L and 5L values may be different. While methodological differences in the way the 3L and 5L value sets have been created impair comparability, it is clear that the most extreme level of the mobility level is important to consider in relation to differences in the value ranges between the 3L and 5L: “Confined to bed” (EQ-5D-3L) is associated with larger disutility than “unable to walk” (EQ-5D-5L) (Law et al 2018).

(Version 16OCT2018)