Does the EQ-5D capture the concerns measured by the Palliative care Outcome Scale? Mapping the Palliative care Outcome Scale onto the EQ-5D using statistical methods.

Background: The main measure to generate utility data for economic evaluations is the EQ-5D, but no study has tested whether or how to map from palliative care measures to the EQ-5D.

Aims: To assess the level of conceptual overlap between palliative outcomes and the EQ-5D, and the feasibility of mapping between them to obtain utilities for the Palliative care Outcome Scale.

Design: A cross-sectional secondary analysis of data from three studies.

Variations in the cost of formal and informal health care for patients with advanced chronic disease and refractory breathlessness: A cross-sectional secondary analysis.

Background: Refractory breathlessness in advanced chronic disease leads to high levels of disability, anxiety and social isolation. These result in high health-resource use, although this is not quantified.

Aims: To measure the cost of care for patients with advanced disease and refractory breathlessness and to identify factors associated with high costs.

Public health and palliative care in 2015.

Palliative care is a public health concern, because the problems faced by patients and their families represent a substantial burden of illness and cost to the society that is likely to increase markedly in the future as the world's population continues to age. There are also inequities in access to palliative care and continued unmet need. There is evidence to support palliative care services, but not yet enough information on the cost-effectiveness of many specific treatments/interventions.