Implementing and delivering a successful biosimilar switch programme - the Berkshire West experience.

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Pharmacoeconomics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Biosimilars offer potential cost savings in managing rheumatic conditions.
• A service evaluation was conducted on switching patients from originator etanercept (Enbrel) to biosimilar Benepali.
• The switch was facilitated by a managed program with a novel fixed price incentive model.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of switching rheumatic patients from etanercept to a biosimilar.
• To assess cost savings, patient-reported outcomes, side effects, and patient experience.
• To determine the feasibility and impact of a managed switching program funded by a fixed price model.

Main Methods:

• Service evaluation of 113 rheumatic patients switched from etanercept to Benepali.
• Outcomes measured included drug acquisition costs, side effects, adverse events, patient outcomes, and patient experience.
• Data collected from August 2016 to March 2017.

Main Results:

• A total of 113 patients were successfully switched, including those with rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
• No increase in side effects was observed post-switch.
• Significant cost savings were achieved: £95,000 in drug acquisition costs and £186,000 in overall prescribing costs for the local health economy.

Conclusions:

• A managed switching program from etanercept to Benepali, utilizing a fixed price model, is effective.
• The program delivers substantial cost savings and allows for investment in clinical services.
• Patient-reported outcomes and experience were maintained at a high level post-switch.