15D
The 15D is a questionnaire that measures health-related quality of life across 15 different areas. It gives both a detailed profile and a single score that shows overall quality of life, which can be used to compare health outcomes and support healthcare decisions.
At a glance
Use when
Conducting cost-utility analyses requiring QALYs, evaluating multidimensional health outcomes in clinical trials, or when detailed HRQoL profiling is needed.
Avoid when
A brief, minimal-burden instrument is required, or when working in non-Western populations without validated translations or utility weights.
Inputs
Patient-reported health status across 15 dimensions (e.g., mobility, breathing, sleeping, eating, speech, elimination, usual activities, mental function, discomfort and symptoms, depression, distress, vitality, sexual activity, sleeping, hearing).
Outputs
A 15-dimensional health profile and a single index score (0–1) representing overall HRQoL, suitable for QALY calculations.
How it works
The 15D is a generic, self-administered instrument with 15 dimensions measuring health-related quality of life (HRQoL). It functions as both a profile and a single index score (0–1 scale) derived using multiattribute utility theory and population-based preference weights. It demonstrates strong reliability, validity, discriminatory power, and responsiveness to change. The 15D outperforms EQ-5D and performs comparably or better than NHP and SF-20. It is validated for use in QALY calculations and recommended by the Washington Panel, available in multiple languages.
- HTA domains
- Clinical Effectiveness, Patient and Social Aspects
- Assumptions
- Health states are independent; utility weights derived from general population preferences are applicable to individuals; the additive multiattribute utility model accurately reflects preferences.
- Strengths
- Comprehensive coverage with 15 dimensions,High discriminatory power and responsiveness to change,Validated for QALY estimation,Available in multiple languages,Recommended for economic evaluations
- Limitations
- May be more burdensome than shorter instruments like EQ-5D,Primarily validated in Western populations,Assumes independence between dimensions
- Also known as
- 15D instrument, 15D HRQoL
Questions this answers
- › What is the patient's current health-related quality of life across multiple dimensions?
- › How does a health intervention affect overall quality of life?
- › What is the utility value of a given health state for economic evaluation?
- › How responsive is a health outcome measure to clinical change over time?
- › Which dimensions of health are most affected by a condition or treatment?
- › How can quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) be estimated in cost-utility analyses?
References & sources
Similar by meaning
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