Sophia Humphreys, PharmD, MHA, BCBBS, director of system formulary management at Sutter Health, discusses how integrated delivery networks (IDNs) can help drive biosimilar adoption.
Sophia Humphreys, PharmD, MHA, BCBBS, director of system formulary management at Sutter Health, explains that biosimilar adoption relies on clear strategies in the "buy and bill" medical benefit space. Successful integrated delivery networks (IDNs) collaborate with group purchasing organizations (GPOs) and 340B programs, regularly assess cost factors, and integrate biosimilar tools into electronic health records (EHRs) to simplify prescribing for physicians. Prior authorization processes for both biosimilars and reference products also streamline care. Regular performance reviews and sharing results with leadership help drive continuous improvement in biosimilar uptake.
First, Humphreys notes that we need to differentiate between medical benefit and pharmacy benefit. Many of the most successful biosimilars are in the medical benefit space, especially in the "buy and bill" space. IDNs that work closely with GPOs, 340B branches, and formulary management teams perform regular reviews of coverage, patient mix, and average sales price vs acquisition cost. These analyses help them decide which biosimilars to prioritize.
Additionally, some IDNs have built biosimilar tools into their EHR systems to streamline physician workflows. Physicians are extremely busy and can’t be expected to remember which product to use each quarter, so it’s important to build support into the system. Some IDNs have also incorporated prior authorization processes for both the reference product and biosimilars, further streamlining care. Finally, it’s crucial to conduct regular performance reviews and share success metrics with leadership. This continuous improvement process elevates the entire system.
The Rebate War: How Originator Companies Are Fighting Back Against Biosimilars
November 25th 2024Few biologics in the US have multiple biosimilar competitors, but originator biologics respond quickly to competition by increasing rebates and lowering net prices, despite short approval-to-launch timelines for biosimilars.
Biosimilars Policy Roundup for September 2024—Podcast Edition
October 6th 2024On this episode of Not So Different, we discuss the FDA's approval of a new biosimilar for treating retinal conditions, which took place in September 2024 alongside other major industry developments, including ongoing legal disputes and broader trends in market dynamics and regulatory challenges.
Boosting Health Care Sustainability: The Role of Biosimilars in Latin America
November 21st 2024Biosimilars could improve access to biologic treatments and health care sustainability in Latin America, but their adoption is hindered by misconceptions, regulatory gaps, and weak pharmacovigilance, requiring targeted education and stronger regulations.
Can Global Policies to Boost Biosimilar Adoption Work in the US?
November 17th 2024On this special episode of Not So Different honoring Global Biosimilars Week, Craig Burton, executive director of the Biosimilars Council, explores how global policies—from incentives to health equity strategies—could boost biosimilar adoption in the US.