The Biosimilars Forum Commends FDA for Commitment to Increase Patient Access to Biosimilars

Following announcements from Food & Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to advance the agency’s biosimilars policy framework, as well as the FDA’s work to combat misinformation about biosimilars, the Biosimilars Forum today issued the following statement:

“Education and outreach to providers, patients, and payors about biosimilars are critical steps to improving patient access to these more affordable, life-saving treatments. The Forum looks forward to working alongside the FDA to dispel misinformation and tear down barriers standing in the way of patients access to these treatments and cost savings. We are pleased to see this step in the right direction, but it’s clear there is more that needs to be done.”

This week Commissioner Scott Gottlieb announced new guidance that will educate and provide clarity to the public about the safety and affordability of biosimilars, as well as updating processes to allow for increased competition in the market.

This announcement followed action the FDA to combat misinformation related to biosimilars. The FDA’s high standard for approval of biosimilars means that patients and health care providers can be confident of the safety and effectiveness of a biosimilar product, just as they would for the reference product.