Six groups representing a range of physicians who prescribe biologics sent a letter to Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) asking Congress to enforce a law mandating biosimilar reimbursements are made separately from other care costs.
The letter urges Congress to direct CMS to adhere to an existing law that states biosimilar reimbursements shall be calculated separately in the payment process.
Biologics are genetically engineered proteins often used to treat rheumatoid arthritis in patients.
The Biologics Prescribers Collaborative along with the other five groups expressed their concern that "[current] coding policy will interfere with the ability to track and trace each biosimilar medicine, which could have grave patient safety implications."
The letter calls for CMS to set unique billing codes for biosimilars in support of patient-centered care and sound biologics prescribing.
The coalition represents the Alliance for Patient Access, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American College of Rheumatology, American Gastroenterological Association, Biologics Prescribers Collaborative and the Coalition of State Rheumatology Organizations.