Posted: April 7, 2017
Governor Susana Martinez signed HB260, which provides important pathways for patient access to biologic medications, while also creating much needed safety rules that include a mandate that pharmacists must communicate to physicians about a biosimilar substitution within 5 days of its dispensing. Requiring this communication as quickly as possible provides physicians an opportunity to counter and correctly report any adverse effects of these medications.
With FDA approval of biosimilars, biological products continue to be of growing importance for rheumatology patients. CSRO supported the safe introduction of interchangeable biologic drugs into the practice of medicine in New Mexico and celebrates the passage of H.B. 260.
New Mexico is now the 29th state to enact such important legislation, and across the country similar bills are being moved. In Kansas, Maryland, and South Carolina biosimilar bills have passed both chambers and await the Governor’s signature. Legislation is also making progress in 8 other states.
