Regulatory Framework for Biosimilars in UAE Healthcare
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Farghaly Mohamed, El-Fass Kareem A, Amin Nabil, Qaiser Shazia, Attallah Mona, Farooq Qasim, Badr Mohamed, Al Dallal Sara, Farah Mona, Nathwani Rahul, Alansari Atheer, Jazzar Ahmad, Reda Ashraf, Lee Martin, Abogamal Ahmed, Fasseeh Ahmad N, Kaló Zoltán
Primary Institution: Health Policy, Dubai Health Care Authority, Dubai, ARE
Hypothesis
How can a framework be formulated for integrating biosimilars in the private healthcare sector of the UAE?
Conclusion
The proposed policies aim to enhance financial sustainability and optimize spending efficiency in the Emirati healthcare system.
Supporting Evidence
- Stakeholders showed a positive perception of biosimilars, believing they can increase access to biological therapies.
- Most stakeholders agreed that switching to biosimilars is safe when medically supervised.
- Recommendations included pricing the first biosimilar at least 30% below the original product.
- Health technology assessment was deemed necessary only for expanding reimbursed indications.
Takeaway
This study suggests that using cheaper biosimilars can help more people get the medicines they need without costing too much.
Methodology
Stakeholders completed a tailored questionnaire during a workshop to gather perceptions on biosimilars.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from stakeholders' affiliations with healthcare organizations.
Limitations
The study had a low number of stakeholders answering the survey, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Stakeholders included clinical experts, healthcare managers, health insurance professionals, and regulators from both private and public sectors in the UAE.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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