Using a discrete choice experiment to value the QLU-C10D: feasibility and sensitivity to presentation format

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Psychometrics
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• The QLU-C10D is a utility instrument derived from the QLQ-C30.
• Valuing health states is crucial for health economic evaluations.
• Discrete Choice Experiments (DCEs) are increasingly used for this purpose.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of using a DCE to value health states within the QLU-C10D.
• To evaluate the clarity, difficulty, and respondent preference for two DCE presentation formats.

Main Methods:

• A DCE valuation task was conducted with 430 respondents in an online panel.
• Respondents completed 16 choice pairs, with variations in presentation formats.
• Task clarity, difficulty, and format preference were assessed using Likert scales and interviews.

Main Results:

• 94% of participants completed the DCE task, indicating feasibility.
• Clarity and difficulty ratings were similar across both formats.
• The 'highlight' format was preferred by 68% of respondents.
• DCE parameter estimates were monotonic, suggesting sensible data collection.

Conclusions:

• A DCE valuation task is feasible for deriving utility weights for the QLU-C10D.
• Simplifying the choice sets by varying only four dimensions is effective.
• The 'highlight' format may enhance respondent preference in DCEs.