Generic or biosimilar equivalents are expected to be available for nearly half of the top 25 specialty drugs available in the U.S. by 2030. Biosimilars help create competition in the market, which can drive significant savings for patients and health plans.
Biosimilars are highly similar to and have no clinically meaningful differences from their biologic reference products, which are derived from living organisms, such as blood, cells, tissues, or proteins.
“At Evernorth, we continuously monitor the biosimilar pipeline to ensure we’re best prepared to support patients who use these therapies, as well as maximize value for plan sponsors,” said Eric Fairbrother, director of product strategy at Accredo by Evernorth.
Near-term pipeline: An anticipated boom in inflammatory and oncology biosimilars
Evernorth anticipates a dramatic shift in inflammatory and oncology treatments over the next five years, with dozens of biosimilars in the pipeline for those categories. Among treatments for inflammatory conditions, we’re seeing significant uptake of biosimilars for Humira, and we anticipate the usage of biosimilars for Stelara will increase.
Biosimilars for about 20 other conditions are anticipated to reach the market in the coming years. These include biosimilars for Enbrel, which treats autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, and Xolair, a treatment for severe asthma.
The future of biosimilars within the oncology category also looks robust. Blockbuster cancer drugs Keytruda and Opdivo are expected to have biosimilar equivalents by 2030.
Accredo’s best-in-class clinical care model improves the patient and provider experience
As the biosimilar market continues to grow, Accredo, which is Evernorth Health Services’ specialty pharmacy, has clinical support in place to educate patients on these new therapeutic options so they are equipped to make informed decisions about their care with their prescriber.
Therapeutic Resource Centers (TRCs), which are integral to Accredo’s care model, are staffed by dedicated teams of pharmacists, nurses, dietitians, social workers, and others who specialize in specific disease states. Accredo clinicians are available 24/7 to support patients throughout their health journey.
Additionally, Accredo clinicians support prescribers who are navigating the biosimilar landscape on behalf of their patients. Accredo’s prescriber portal publishes patient status updates, and Accredo specialists are available to answer questions about biosimilars and other treatment-related inquiries in real-time.
Accredo’s comprehensive clinical care model helps ensure that every step of a specialty patient’s care journey is meticulously managed. With the influx of new biosimilars coming to market, patients and prescribers can rest assured that Accredo has the experience, infrastructure, and a best-in-class clinical care model available.
