Opinion

Video

Examining the Role of Interchangeability in Clinical Practice

Panelists discuss how implementing interchangeable biosimilars requires effective communication with providers and patients, emphasizing that educating stakeholders before making changes is essential for successful adoption despite the legal permissions afforded by interchangeability designation.

Interchangeability and Implementation Strategies

Key Themes:

  • Communication and Education: Despite interchangeability designation, successful implementation requires thorough communication with providers, support staff, and patients to prevent surprises and maintain confidence.
  • European Experience and Data: Health care providers have confidence in biosimilars based on extensive European experience and strong clinical data but request streamlined implementation processes.
  • Inventory Management: Having multiple biosimilars for each originator product creates inventory management challenges, making it important to identify preferred “workhorse” products while accommodating specific payer requirements.

Key Points for Physicians:

  • Engage patients before switching to biosimilars, even with interchangeability designation, to prevent confusion and anxiety.
  • Interchangeability simplifies the prescription process by allowing pharmacists to change prescriptions without provider intervention.
  • Analyze payer-preferred products for potential alignment to minimize inventory complexity while meeting coverage requirements.

Notable Insights:

Taking time up front for stakeholder education prevents complications later and reduces patient anxiety, making it a best practice even when not required.

Clinical Significance: Interchangeability designation provides important operational benefits, but successful biosimilar implementation still requires thoughtful communication, education, and inventory strategies to optimize patient care and system efficiency.

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