PSY130 - Perceptions of Biosimilars Across Physician Specialities in Europe

Abstract

This study assessed perceptions of biosimilars across physician specialties (rheumatology, dermatology, gastroenterology) in EU5 to gain insights on patient access. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Q4 2016 in the EU5 among national, regional and hospital physicians. Respondents completed a Physician Biosimilar Perceptual Questionnaire, which assessed the overall perception of anti-TNF biosimilars, specific barriers to prescribing them and cost factors influencing the current use and adoption of biosimilars. A total of 670 physicians (n=250 rheumatologists; n=220 dermatologists; n=200 gastroenterologists) in the EU5 were recruited as part of the study. Rheumatologists tended to possess greater awareness of biosimilars, most notably in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA; 83%) when compared to dermatologists (61%) and gastroenterologists (72%-74%). Gastroenterologists expressed the greatest level of agreement with statements concerning the efficacy, safety and trustworthiness of biosimilars, with nearly half (range: 37% to 54%) of this group agreeing with such statements as “I trust biosimilars as much as branded biologics”. Dermatologists (range: 14% to 38%) and rheumatologists (range: 25% to 41%) possessed similar but lower levels of agreeance with such statements. Whereas both rheumatologists and gastroenterologists reported unfavorable associations between biosimilars and statements regarding long-term efficacy and safety, these specialists did possess a favorable association with formulary coverage. In contrast, dermatologists, who possess less experience with biosimilars, had few favorable associations across the surveyed domains. Differences emerged in the perception of biosimilars across physician specialties in the EU5. Whereas rheumatologists expressed the greatest level of awareness of biosimilars, gastroenterologists possessed the most confidence in their safety and efficacy. These results suggest that tailored education targeted to specialty could enhance adoption of biosimilars in the treatment of chronic immunologic conditions.