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Research in recent years carried out by EuroQol Group members has concentrated on statistical modeling to generate values for all the 243 theoretically possible health states defined by EQ-5D. (list of value sets)

The starting point when selecting a set of values has to be the anticipated uses to which the EQ-5D data are to be put. Once this decision has been made, a set of weights that represent the general population's preferences might be the ideal system of choice, but such a system is not always available. The following may help to resolve these choices:

Economic studies

• For economic studies where cost utility analysis is anticipated, most health economists would recommend a value set that has been derived using a choice-based method (e.g. TTO). In the absence of a set of national population-based utility weights, then select a set of utility weights for a population that most closely approximates it. In the absence of a suitable candidate, adopt the most robust valuation set (the UK TTO set).
• For economic studies where cost-utility analysis is not anticipated, then a VAS set of weights can be used. In the absence of a locally appropriate set of values then adopt the most robust valuation set (either UK VAS A3 set or the European EQ-net VAS set).
• For economic or non-economic studies in which the values for health states are required from particular population subgroups then it may be possible to synthesise by analysing pre-existing value sets collectively owned by members of the EuroQol Group. Contact the EuroQol Executive Office for assistance.
  
  

Non-economic studies

• In non-economic studies where VAS values are required, then act as in (2) above. If relevant to the form of non-economic study, the use of self-rated VAS data should be considered.
  
  

Value sets produced as part of the EuroQol Group enterprise

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A book with a comprehensive inventory of these value sets and guidance for users has recently been published: "EQ-5D value sets: inventory, comparative review and user guide''. This book can be ordered from Springer via this link.