A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF ASSESSMENT OF FACTORS INFLUENCING INSTITUTIONAL ADOPTION OF BIOSIMILARS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF HOSPITAL PHARMACISTS IN MALAYSIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22146/ijp.19331Keywords:
Biosimilars, biosimilars implementation, biosimilars adoption, public health, biopharmaceuticals.Abstract
Background
There are significant barriers to the broader adoption of biosimilars, despite the increasing number of approved biosimilars for patient care and the growing recognition among physicians for prescribing them. Among all healthcare providers, hospital pharmacists possess the most comprehensive understanding of the clinical profile of biosimilar products, along with logistical and supply chain considerations. Consequently, hospital pharmacists are strategically positioned to enhance the education of all key stakeholders in biosimilar medicine, aiming to improve access and promote rational use. This paper seeks to assess the factors influencing institutional adoption of biosimilars from the perspective of hospital pharmacists in Malaysia.
Methods
Hospital pharmacists who were purposefully sampled and had been practicing with biosimilars participated in a focus group discussion, which was then followed by semi-structured interviews. To generate and analyse data, a framework analysis technique that made use of the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) was applied. Following the completion of the data mapping process, the CFIR-ERIC (expert recommendations for implementing change) matching tool was utilized in order to produce solutions that were tailored to the barriers that were discovered.
Results
Participating in this study were eighteen pharmacists working in the hospital in Malaysia. The input of the respondent was used to identify challenges and opportunities that were associated with the implementation of biosimilars. According to the findings of the CFIR-ERIC strategies matching tool study, there are feasible alternatives that can help overcome the barriers such as identifying and preparing champions, assess for readiness and identify barriers and facilitators, conduct local consensus discussions, build a coalition, and inform local opinion leaders
Conclusion
The adoption of biosimilars in hospital pharmacies represents a significant step toward improving public health, healthcare quality, and patient outcomes. This study highlights the importance of understanding the factors influencing their implementation among Malaysian hospital pharmacists. By identifying key strategies such as preparing champions, assessing readiness, fostering consensus, and encouraging adaptability, the research provides actionable insights to facilitate the successful integration of biosimilars into pharmacy practice, addressing implementation challenges effectively.
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