Population norms

Population reference data, sometimes called population norm data or simply population norms, provide baseline or reference scores for a specific country or international region, based on representative samples. EQ-5D population norms can be used to to benchmark the outcomes of specific individuals or groups (e.g. patients) against the health of the general population, which also helps to identity the burden of the disease of patients or patient groups. Additionally, population norms can facilitate the calculation of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and may be instrumental for health care decision-making in the economic evaluation of medical interventions and health technologies.

Population norms, including reported problems by the five EQ-5D dimensions, self-reported EQ VAS ratings, and EQ-5D values have been published by age and gender for the EQ-5D-5L and the EQ-5D-3L in a large number of countries or regions. Apart from norms for general populations, there are also several population norms available for specific population groups, such as patient groups and the elderly.