A Taxonomy for Assessing Whether HRQoL Value Sets Are Obsolete.

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Health Policy
• Outcomes Research

Background:

• Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) value sets are crucial for estimating quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) in healthcare economic evaluations.
• Many existing value sets are becoming obsolete due to outdated methodologies and non-representative population data.
• A strategy to identify and mitigate value set obsolescence is essential for maintaining policy maker confidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a taxonomy for classifying value set obsolescence.
• To explore methods for identifying different types of obsolescence.
• To propose solutions for addressing value set obsolescence in collaboration with policymakers.

Main Methods:

• Development of a four-part taxonomy for value set obsolescence.
• Categorization includes misalignment with HTA requirements, outdated methodologies, population drift, and changing preferences.
• Exploration of mitigation strategies from sensitivity analyses to new data collection.

Main Results:

• The taxonomy identifies four key areas of value set obsolescence.
• Specific solutions are proposed for each type of obsolescence, tailored to local contexts.
• Collaboration between methodologists and policymakers is highlighted as key.

Conclusions:

• Value set obsolescence is complex and requires careful assessment beyond just time since data collection.
• The proposed taxonomy provides a framework for evaluating and responding to obsolescence.
• Regular review and potential updating of value sets using current best practices are recommended, balancing benefits against costs.