Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2022
1072. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the amount and percentage of the amount spent on medicines by the State that related to biosimilar medicines; his plans to increase the use of biosimilar medicines in Ireland; the saving achieved in biosimilar medicines in each of the past five years in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14959/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to inform the Deputy that the prescribing of Best Value Biologic (BvB) medicines is leading to significant savings for the health service, which is assisting us in facilitating access to new, innovative medicines for patients.
The HSE is actively engaged in implementing measures across a number of domains and under several initiatives, including the Acute Hospitals Drugs Management Programme, the HSE Medicines Management Programme (MMP), and within the Primary Care Reimbursement Service.
The HSE Medicines Management Programme published recommendations in May 2019 in relation to two high tech drugs, adalimumab and etanercept. That year, the HSE also introduced the Gainshare Initiative, which provides a financial incentive to public hospitals and clinics to pursue biosimilar treatment switching programmes. By January 2022, over 17,000 patients had switched to a best-value-biologic (BvB). In January 2022, the percentage value of Biosimilar drugs reimbursed to High Tech suppliers was over 54% of the available market. Associated annual savings in excess of €80 million have been achieved.
Further progress in this area must be carefully planned and implemented, with patient’s confidence and assurance at the forefront of any new initiatives and developments.
I have referred this matter to the HSE for their attention and direct reply to the Deputy in relation to the statistical information sought.
