Provider Perceptions of Biosimilar Use in Oncology Networks

Provider perceptions of barriers to biosimilar use in a large oncology network were examined in research published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association. Researchers revealed that low levels of perceived barriers and high utilization rates, with implications for increasing access to life-saving care.

This study aimed to evaluate the reasons for inconsistent uptake of biosimilars in the US and their impact on access to health care, specifically in the field of oncology. The research also sought to understand how provider perceptions of barriers to biosimilar use vary based on demographic and practice characteristics within a national oncology network.

A survey consisting of 28 items was given to 400 network health care professionals across 25 provider groups, assessing barriers to use and demographic information. Utilization rates were determined using patient-level drug administration data from electronic health records. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze survey responses and explore relationships between variables.

Out of 46 responses analyzed (11.5% response rate), most respondents were female physicians with over 6 years of experience. The majority worked in practices participating in the Oncology Care Model and had received continuing education on biosimilars. Overall, perceived barriers were low, with operational barriers being the lowest and payer-related barriers the highest. Perceptions of barriers did not vary based on demographic and practice characteristics. The average biosimilar utilization rate was 66.2%, with practices in the West using them most frequently, and this rate was not affected by perceived barriers.

“Perceived barriers to biosimilar utilization were not common and not associated with utilization. Infrequent impediments to utilization may be associated with network-wide emphasis on continuing education and a value-based care environment,” said researchers. “Future research should consider other practice- and patient-level factors that may impact biosimilar utilization.” 

Reference 
Briggs O, Brown C M, Indurlal P, Garey JS, Johnsrud M. Provider perceptions of barriers to biosimilar utilization in community oncology practices. J Am Pharm Assoc. 2024;64(4):102082. doi:10.1016/j.japh.2024.102082.