Jane Hippenmeyer
Amgen Europe, Switzerland
Title: Introducing biosimilar therapeutic products in oncology: The critical need for nurse education
Biography
Biography: Jane Hippenmeyer
Abstract
European nurses have had experience with biosimilar molecules in oncology for over 10 years. However, these biosimilars were of small molecule supportive care drugs including granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and erythropoietin (EPO). Currently the large molecule therapeutic monoclonal antibodies are arriving in hospitals as the patents for drugs such as MabThera, Herceptin and Avastin expire. In order for patient acceptance and healthcare providers (HCP) adoption for successful cost savings to the health care systems, the role of the nurse in patient education will be critical. The pathway leading to regulatory approval should be understood by nurses so that they can properly educate patients on these therapies. In addition, a proper understanding of the creation and manufacturing of these biologic products should be appreciated. A discussion guide for use by nurses with their patients will be proposed to the audience for consideration. Questions regarding common misunderstandings will be addressed during this session.