Toward Explicit Prioritization for the Caribbean: An EQ-5D Value Set for Trinidad and Tobago

Background Resource allocation decision making in the Caribbean can be greatly enhanced by the introduction of cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) analysis on the basis of local preferences. In the valuation literature there have been recommendations for the elicitation methods of the EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D) that combine discrete-choice experiment (DCE) for bulk valuation with a time trade-off component for rescaling. Objectives To create a three-level EQ-5D value set for Trinidad and Tobago using an elicitation method that takes into account the local constraints, and that can be easily deployed in other Caribbean islands. Methods A D-efficient DCE was completed by a representative sample of 307 adults. A time trade-off procedure was used to obtain values for rescaling the DCE model on a scale anchored at 0 (dead) and 1 (full health). Results A mixed logit analysis of the DCE data produced an internally valid model that is similar to the results obtained in earlier pilot studies. Conclusions This EQ-5D value set allows cost per QALY analyses to be carried out on the basis of preferences from Trinidad and Tobago, and the approach to the DCE design can be taken for similar value sets to be created in the small, resource-constrained health systems of the Caribbean. Some guidelines for the initial application and introduction of cost per QALY analysis into the Trinidad and Tobago health system are also presented.

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