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Gustavo Fring

Ontario Biosimilar

In recent years, many governments and healthcare systems around the world, including the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, have been increasingly adopting biosimilar drugs as a cost-saving measure. This is because biosimilars offer a more affordable alternative to brand-name biologic drugs, while still maintaining similar safety and efficacy.

Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, is no exception. The provincial government has announced it will be switching to biosimilar drugs in 2023 as part of its ongoing efforts to manage healthcare costs and ensure the long-term sustainability of the public healthcare system. Some of the potential benefits of this move include:

  • Cost savings: Biosimilar drugs are generally less expensive than their brand-name counterparts, leading to significant savings for the healthcare system. This can free up funds for other critical areas of healthcare, such as improving access to care and investing in innovative treatments.
  • Increased accessibility: By lowering the cost of biologic therapies, more patients may be able to access these life-changing treatments, leading to improved health outcomes for many individuals.
  • Encouraging competition: The introduction of biosimilar drugs can help foster competition in the pharmaceutical market, which can drive down prices and lead to further savings for the healthcare system.
  • Supporting innovation: The cost savings achieved through the use of biosimilars can be reinvested into research and development, leading to the discovery of new and improved therapies for various medical conditions.

By December 29, 2023, all Ontario plan members who are covered under the ODB program or are on certain reference biologic drugs will have to switch to a biosimilar drug.  After that date, the province won’t provide coverage for those reference biologic drugs. Exceptions apply for plan members who can’t use a biosimilar for a medical reason.

As Ontario moves toward adopting biosimilar drugs, the government will need to implement educational and support programs to ensure a smooth transition. This includes providing information to healthcare providers and patients about the safety and effectiveness of biosimilars, as well as addressing any concerns or misconceptions. In addition, the government will need to carefully monitor the impact of this switch on patient outcomes and the overall healthcare system to ensure its success and continued sustainability.

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