QALY-time: experts' view on the use of the quality-adjusted LIFE year in COST-effectiveness analysis in palliative care.
Anne B WichmannLia C M J GoltsteinNdidi J ObiharaMadeleine R BerendsenM Van HoudenhovenR Sean MorrisonBridget M JohnstonY Engelsnull nullPublished in: BMC health services research (2020)
1) Although the EQ-5D does not suffice, a generic tool is needed for the QALY. As long as no suitable alternative is available, other tools can be used besides or serve as basis for the EQ-5D because of issues in conceptual overlap. 2) Future research should further investigate the valuation of time issue, and how best to integrate it in the 'Q' component. 3) A generic outcome measure of effectiveness is essential to justly allocate healthcare resources. However, experts emphasized, the QALY is and should be one of multiple criteria for choices in the healthcare insurance package.