optimal cancer care more sustainable and widely accessible .
Recently , ESMO published a paper about the integration of biosimilars into routine oncology practice , calling for multidisciplinary collaboration to build confidence wherever it is still lacking . 7 This organisation also performed a survey showing that three in four ( 75 %) prescribers know what a biosimilar is . When oncologists were questioned about their knowledge of , and confidence with , biosimilars , many of them had only moderate confidence in their understanding of key concepts that underpin biosimilar drug development and use . Close to 87 % of respondents stated that they wanted more educational activities on the subject . Extrapolating the use of a biosimilar in all indications approved for the originator appears the most common source of misunderstanding among physicians , nurses and patients alike , according to data in this survey . 7
Prescribers suggested numerous topics for future educational activities , including clinical trial design and endpoints , bioequivalence criteria and studies , approval procedures , principles of pricing and reimbursement , and treatment outcome comparisons between biosimilars and their originators . Communication channels suggested to facilitate these activities included online educational activities and materials ( courses , quizzes , articles , educational handbooks ) and updates on key developments and face-to-face educational
Shared patient – physician decisions based on the unique needs of individuals should be encouraged activities ( congress sessions , preceptorships , workshops and seminars ).
For patients When addressing patient education , it needs to be borne in mind that patients have the right to access information about their treatments . Shared patient – physician decisions based on the unique needs of individuals should be encouraged to achieve a shared agreement . This decision-making process should always be based in a framework of mutual trust , confidence , respect and commitment . The communication will be oriented to transmit accurate , adequate and bidirectional information . 8
In this process of ‘ information / education ’, regulatory agencies 9 , 10 have launched a series of tools designed to fulfil the needs and demands of the different stakeholders involved in the process ( physicians , patients and payers ).
European patients receiving biosimilars can access information on their treatment through the European Medicines Agency ’ s website . For questions on what is a biosimilar , and how its safety and efficacy are ensured , patients can consult a Q & A document in patient-friendly language hosted on the European Commission ’ s website . 11 The Q & A is available in seven languages ( English , French , German , Italian , Polish , Portuguese and Spanish ), and offers patients access to unbiased and reliable information . The aim of the Q & A is to answer basic questions in a simple and easily understandable
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