HSD7 Prescribing Behavior Among Community Oncologists for Generics/Biosimilars While Considering Costs or Financial Toxicity When Treating Cancer

Abstract

Patient out-of-pocket cancer treatment costs can be considerable in the United States (U.S.) resulting in the recently described adverse event, financial toxicity (FT). FT is the adverse impact of a cancer diagnosis or treatment on a patient’s financial well-being due to the treatment cost, travel time, and/or employment status. In the recent PRO-TECT trial, which assessed FT screening in oncology practice, found that routine screening along with communication of concerns to the clinical team resulted in patient benefits (e.g., prevented increased FT). Biosimilar drugs may reduce total cost of care and FT. In October 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act increased Medicare payment to physicians for qualifying biosimilar infusions, thus incentivizing consideration where appropriate. We conducted research to understand physician perceptions around FT and the role biosimilars may play in its reduction.