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Using generic preference-based measures in mental health: psychometric validity of the EQ-5D and SF-6D
Brendan Mulhern1, Clara Mukuria1, Michael Barkham1
1Brendan Mulhern, MRes, Clara Mukuria, PhD, Health Economics and Decision Science, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, UK; Michael Barkham, PhD, Centre for Psychological Services Research, Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK; Martin Knapp, PhD, Centre for the Economics of Mental and Physical Health, King's College London, and Personal Social Services Research Unit, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK; Sarah Byford, PhD, Centre for the Economics of Mental and Physical Health, King's College London, UK; Djøra Soeteman, PhD, Center for Health Decision Science, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; John Brazier, PhD, Health Economics and Decision Science, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, UK.
Background:
Generic preference-based measures (EuroQoL-5D (EQ-5D) and SF-6D) are used in the economic evaluation of mental health interventions. However, there are inconsistent findings regarding their psychometric properties.
Aims:
To investigate the psychometric properties of the EQ-5D and SF-6D in different mental health conditions, using seven existing data-sets.
Method:
The construct validity and responsiveness of the measures were assessed in comparison with condition-specific indicators.
Results:
Evidence for construct validity and responsiveness in common mental health and personality disorders was found (correlations 0.22-0.64; effect sizes 0.37-1.24; standardised response means 0.45-1.31). There was some evidence for validity in schizophrenia (correlations 0.05-0.43), but responsiveness was unclear.
Conclusions:
EQ-5D and SF-6D can be used in the economic evaluation of interventions for common mental health problems with some confidence. In schizophrenia, a preference-based measure focused on the impact of mental health should be considered.
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