Industry Voices—Why 'New' isn't Always Better in Innovating Healthcare

This article emphasizes that innovation in healthcare often prioritizes "first," "newest," or "cheapest" options but may not always lead to the best outcomes. The author discusses the proliferation of biosimilars in the market, like Humira, and how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) play a crucial role in evaluating and selecting the most clinically effective and cost-efficient options for patients. PBMs consider various factors beyond just price, such as clinical efficacy, interchangeability, and patient experience. They aim to ensure that innovation in healthcare is patient-centric, offering the highest value both clinically and financially. The article highlights the importance of healthcare organizations embracing innovation while safeguarding patients and providing them with expert guidance for navigating their care effectively.