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GHLF Supports OH HB 505

4/ 19

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AUTHOR: 50SN Staff

DATE: Apr 19, 2016

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GHLF Supports OH HB 505

HB 505 takes positive steps toward updating Ohio law to cover biologics and biosimilars in a way that protects patients. As you know, unlike traditional chemical drugs, biologics are unique, complex structures made from living cells that are not easily replicated. A small change or difference in the biosimilar or biologic manufacturing process has the potential to adversely impact the patient.

There are three provisions in HB 505 that GHLF believes are key to ensuring patients’ safety and needs are met in the best way possible.

  • First, the bill requires a pharmacist dispensing an interchangeable biosimilar to notify the
    prescribing physician within five business days.
  • Second, the bill clearly states that the patient for whom the biological product is prescribed
    must be informed of the substitution and has the right to refuse it.
  • Third, it requires that physicians have the opportunity to prevent a substitution by instructing
    “do not substitute” or “dispense as written” on the prescription.

Click here to read the full support letter