Patients need better guidance to accept biosimilars; Survey shows only 40% support pharmacy interchange

With Finland’s new legislation enabling pharmacy interchange of biosimilars, understanding the needs and perspectives of patients using biological medicines has become critical. A comprehensive study conducted by Oriola’s Real World Evidence (RWE) team reveals that while biosimilars offer significant cost-saving potential, only 40% of patients are open to substitution in pharmacies. Patients often lack knowledge about their treatment, highlighting the need for improvement.  

The findings, detailed in two recently published articles, also emphasise that practical, face-to-face instruction – covering administration and side effects – is essential for treatment success, as well as shed light on the barriers to biosimilar adoption and the important role of education in addressing them.

Bridging the knowledge gap with guidance

The newly published article, “Cross-sectional patient survey in biological medicine users in Finland to investigate the types of guidance needed by patients in order to carry out their treatment successfully”, highlights that effective, practical instruction is essential for patients managing treatments with biological medicines. The study found that face-to-face guidance—focused on administration and managing potential side effects—was identified by patients as a crucial factor in achieving treatment success. This is especially relevant as the national healthcare system increasingly seeks to maximise the cost-saving potential of biosimilars without compromising efficacy.  

“Providing patients with accessible and reliable information builds their confidence in treatment. This is especially relevant as healthcare systems look to maximise the cost-saving potential of biosimilars without compromising on efficacy”, says Tuire Prami, Oriola’s Senior RWE Scientist.  

Awareness and trust remain barriers

An earlier article, “Biosimilars would reduce health care costs but are yet poorly known – Patient survey study among biological medicine users”, revealed that only 40% of patients were positive to pharmacy interchange. In addition, patients often lack knowledge about whether they are using an originator or a biosimilar. The findings underscore the crucial role of education and the influence of physicians, as patients are more likely to accept biosimilars when prescribed by their doctor.   

“Building trust through education and collaboration between healthcare professionals is vital to drive the adoption of biosimilars. Patients but also pharmacists and doctors value reliable guidance to ensure successful transitions,” adds Tuire Prami.

Comprehensive approach to healthcare transformation

Together, these articles underline the importance of integrating patient guidance, physician involvement, and pharmacist support to realise the full benefits of biosimilars. They also highlight Finland’s forward-thinking healthcare policies that allow pharmacy interchange of biological medicines while prioritising patient safety and compliance.

About the survey

The findings are based on a cross-sectional survey conducted in 88 community pharmacies and via two national patient organisations in Finland. The study captured responses from 199 patients using biological medicines, providing valuable data on patients’ treatment experiences and attitudes towards biosimilars. 

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