MedImpact expands access to 2 Humira biosimilars for new patients

MedImpact Healthcare Systems, an independent provider of health solutions, technology and pharmacy benefit services, is expanding access to Humira biosimilars, Simlandi and adalimumab-adaz, for new patients requiring medication for inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis. 

Patients already taking Humira through their pharmacy benefit can continue to do so, and new patients who have taken one of the two biosimilars but did not see the desired results may switch to Humira.

“We are making these biosimilars for Humira available through the pharmacy benefit because we are now, for the first time, satisfied that they meet our stringent standards for clinical interchangeability and lowest net cost,” said Nicole Ellermeier, vice president of formulary strategy & rebate economics at MedImpact. “And we have designed our approach to give members, providers, and payers flexibility, choices, and confidence.”

[Read more: A new environment for biosimilars]

Members may have their prescriptions filled at any pharmacy for FDA-approved biosimilars, regardless of the manufacturer. This level of flexibility is not universally available in the marketplace. Given the complexity of the manufacturing process and nature of the ingredients, MedImpact is making two biosimilars available to ensure availability in the event of supply chain disruptions.

To ensure that clinical considerations take precedence over cost alone, the member copay, deductible and other factors will be the same for the biosimilars and Humira. This allows member flexibility without incurring any additional out-of-pocket costs.

MedImpact said it continues to monitor the market for biosimilars for several conditions and will to add to its formularies others that meet its clinical, supply chain and cost requirements.

[Read more: Prioritizing Lower-Priced Biosimilar Medications]

“Expanding access to biosimilars is complex and involves significant clinical and economic implications,” said Arpit Patel, vice president, trade relations at MedImpact. “Our guiding principle, however, is straightforward: First, we must provide convenient and affordable access to clinically appropriate medications, followed by ensuring these medications are financially sustainable for patients and payers alike.”