Modular update to NICE manuals EQ-5D-5L value set: Evidence review document

Based on the evidence, our recommendation is that the NICE technology appraisal and highly specialised technologies guidance manual (PMG36) and the developing NICE guidelines manual (PMG20) require updating to stipulate that utility values in reference-case analyses should be calculated using the EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and the UK value set published by Rowen et al. (2026). It will state that data gathered using the EQ-5D-3L descriptive system should be mapped onto the 5L value set, using the mapping function and dataset recommended in the current manual (PMG36). Appendix A has details on the proposed amendments to the manuals' wording.

The EQ-5D-5L descriptive system and value set should also be used for any HealthTech evaluations that require cost–utility analyses. However, the NICE HealthTech programme manual (PMG48) does not require any updates because it does not mention the EQ-5D measure and directs stakeholders to the technology appraisal and highly specialised technologies guidance manual (PMG36) for information on measuring and valuing health effects in cost–utility analyses.

In line with NICE's modular updates framework, available as part of a public board paper (Word), the updated methods will be prospectively applied to NICE guidance. That is, for all topics for which the evaluation started after the publication date of the updated manuals. For technology appraisals and highly specialised technologies (HST) guidance this refers to the invitation to participate, and for HealthTech evaluations this refers to the topic launch. For NICE guidelines this refers to topic selection.

Existing NICE recommendations using the EQ-5D-3L value set will not be reviewed solely to incorporate the EQ-5D-5L value set. Guidance will be updated only if there are changes to the evidence base, clinical pathway or economic case that are likely to have a material effect on the recommendations.