On October 20, 2022, Saskatchewan announced it is introducing a biosimilars initiative.
For any new patients starting a biologic drug, the Saskatchewan Drug Plan will only offer coverage for the listed biosimilar version. Patients already receiving an original biologic drug are expected to transition to a biosimilar version by April 30, 2023. Exemptions for medical reasons will be considered. Saskatchewan joins five other provinces and the Northwest Territories in mandating non-medical switching to a biosimilar.
Details regarding the initiative are available on the Saskatchewan Biosimilars Initiative website. Patients on the following biologics for certain indications will have to switch, unless exempted or “if a suitable biosimilar format is not available”: adalimumab, etanercept, enoxaparin, filgrastim, infliximab, insulin aspart, insulin glargine, insulin lispro and rituximab. The policy will apply to future reference biologics as biosimilars are launched and covered by the Saskatchewan Drug Plan Formulary.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Life Sciences Regulatory & Compliance Group.
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