Joseph Reiz

British Columbia's Biosimilars Initiative has successfully saved about $732 million over five years by transitioning over 40,000 patients from reference biologics to biosimilars, without compromising health outcomes. This incredible achievement was not merely due to changing prescriptions, but thanks to a comprehensive program for patients and physicians. Key aspects of the initiative included: 🔄 6-month transition period 📜 A requirement for a new prescription from a prescriber for the switch 💬 Support fees for prescribers and pharmacists assisting patients 📝 Patient lists for prescribers 🔍 Consultations with patient groups, clinicians, professional bodies, insurers, and drug sponsors 📚 Educational and support tools for patients and healthcare providers 📢 Coordinated communications 📊 Monitoring biosimilar utilization ❗Exceptional coverage for patients unable to switch for clinical reasons ⛔ Delisting reference biologics after the transition period With adoption rates of 91%-95% within 24 months, BC's model exemplifies effective biosimilar adoption for cost savings and improved patient care, setting a precedent for other regions. Explore how we integrate patient insights into clinical trials and healthcare solutions: >> https://lnkd.in/dtgXSjVm >> https://lnkd.in/dc4kXmjw #biosimilars #patients #clinicalresearch #clinicaltrials #healthcare #biotech

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Honoring Women in Biotech: Today we celebrate Frances Kathleen Oldham Kelsey (1914 - 2015), a pioneering Canadian-American pharmacologist whose vigilance and dedication to drug safety saved countless lives. Frances Oldham Kelsey made history through her critical role at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), where her work led to significant reforms in pharmaceutical oversight and safety. ⭐ FDA heroine who prevented the approval of thalidomide In 1960, as a new FDA reviewer, Kelsey refused to authorize the drug thalidomide for market due to concerns about its potential side effects. Her decision was confirmed when thalidomide was later found to cause severe birth defects. Her actions not only prevented a health disaster in the US, but also led to stricter drug regulations and more stringent testing protocols. 🏅 Distinguished Federal Civilian Service Award In 1962, Kelsey was the second woman to receive the President’s Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service. Her commitment to public health was further recognized in 2010 when she became the first recipient of the FDA’s Drug Safety Excellence Award, highlighting her lifelong contributions to drug safety and regulatory science. 🔬 A legacy of scientific integrity Kelsey's career is a testament to the importance of scientific integrity and ethical responsibility in the pharmaceutical industry. Her legacy continues to inspire regulatory professionals and scientists dedicated to safeguarding public health. Follow us on LinkedIn to learn more about brilliant women in science like Frances Oldham Kelsey! #WomenInScience #WomenInBiotech #ThalidomideTragedy #Thalidomide #STEM #PublicHealth #Pioneer #Pharmacology #PharmaceuticalSafety #Pharmaceuticals #PADFCS #MedicalHistory #Legacy #Inspiration #FrancesOldhamKelsey #FDAAward #FDA #DrugSafety #CanadianAmerican #Biotech

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Despite spectacular breakthroughs in human molecular genetics and information technologies, experts at McGill University show that #pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing in approved #cardiovasculardrugs is limited. As pre-emptive PGx combining genomic profiling with electronic medical records offers significant potential for improving healthcare, more research is needed to validate PGx markers. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/e_43cSgm. #CVD #PharmacologicalReviews #pharmacology 

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#TBT – In September of 2019, Altasciences welcomed Dr. Lynne LeSauteur as Vice President, Immunochemistry and Immunology. In 2020, she was promoted to Vice President, Laboratory Sciences, and now leads a team of over 260 scientists involved in bioanalysis, immunogenicity, biomarkers, and immunotoxicity assessments for small and large molecules. Lynne and her team have contributed to the growth of Laboratory Sciences over the years, highlighted by expanded ligand binding assay, molecular biology and LCMS laboratories and capabilities, a new bioanalysis facility in Columbia, and diversified preclinical to clinical bioanalysis services for immunomodulators, gene therapy, and innovator molecules. #MovingInUnison #WeAreAltasciences #DrugDevelopment

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