Educational campaigns and familiarity with biosimilars
Science-based educational campaigns about products and their use are key to user confidence. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other organizations have set up a variety of these campaigns that include information on biosimilar manufacture and development, approvals, the concept of extrapolation, and clinical considerations of biosimilar use. In addition, it is highlighted that specialty professional societies, such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the rare-disease patient and provider community, have recognized the benefits of biosimilars and have put effort into educating members on biosimilars.

The report highlights that, after five years of biosimilars, physicians now have improved knowledge of biosimilars products. It discusses a number of surveys and studies that highlight aspects of the changing biosimilars landscape in the US.

A 2018 market research study of 510 oncologists, haematologists and practice administrators showed that almost 80% were very or somewhat familiar with biosimilars, with 95% being very or somewhat confident that they are as safe as reference products.

However, another 2018 survey of 442 clinicians found that 55% were unfamiliar with biosimilars and 35% of physicians had never prescribed one. Despite this, 65% of respondents indicated willingness to prescribe them if there was a significant cost different for patients.

In addition, a 2019 survey of 100 doctors found that they had high confidence in using biosimilars, however, in contrast, they believed the main barrier to widespread biosimilar adoption was physician confidence, see Figure 1.

Figure 1: Barriers to biosimilar adoption

The report also notes that a capable manufacturer sales forces can help fill knowledge gaps in the healthcare system.

Operational processes
The savings expected from biosimilars are important when considering that hospital systems and providers are focused on cost savings while providing quality care. There are three key things that health systems and providers need to prepare for the growing availability of biosimilars:

• Anticipate potential differences in delivery device between originators and biosimilars
• Understand differences in electronic health record tracking when stocking originators and biosimilars
• Become familiar with major payers’ coverage and reimbursement policies for biosimilars

High-quality and reliable supply
Reference originator products and biosimilars are both held to the FDA’s good manufacturing practice (GMP) standards. When deciding to use a product, providers should consider quality and the manufacturers ability to maintain supply.

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