Saskatchewan adopts biosimilar switching program for 6th province/territory

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health announced the introduction of a biosimilar switching program – the 6^th of its kind to be introduced into provinces/territories in Canada. Under the new program, the Saskatchewan Drug Plan will only cover listed biosimilars for new patients starting on biologic drugs.  The program will initially include 10 medications, with new biosimilars to be added as they become available.  Existing patients are expected to transition to biosimilars by 30 April 2023.  The Ministry of Health reported that it expects the program to result in annual savings of $20 million once the transition is complete.  Saskatchewan is the fifth Canadian province to adopt a biosimilars switching program, following similar moves by British Columbia, New Brunswick, Quebec and Nova Scotia.