Drawing on collective action theory to foster sustainable biosimilar markets - insights from co-creation workshops with UK and Belgian stakeholders.

Abstract

Background: Research has signaled the need for reformed biosimilar policy frameworks that adopt a behavioral approach, are informed by consensus-generating strategies and thus better align with the requirements of local healthcare communities.

Research design and methods: Through a series of co-creation workshops, the current study explores the feasibility of applying learnings from Collective Action Theory to formulate evidence-based multistakeholder-supported policy recommendations.

Results: Insights from the conducted workshops indicate that future policy frameworks would benefit from: 1) a working system of incentives and rewards aligned with stakeholder needs; 2) evaluating the cost-benefit balance for stakeholders prior to policy implementation; 3) involving multistakeholder panels in policy co-design; 4) adopting a long-term vision; 5) fostering coordination at the interface between levels of governance; 6) defining shared goals and efficient systems to monitor policy compliance; and 7) using policy outcome data to adapt current policy frameworks based on evolving needs. The incorporation of these elements to policies is expected to help prioritize long-term sustainable solutions, and balance short-term gains and long-term objectives in biosimilar markets.

Conclusions: This study constitutes a first approach to developing multistakeholder-supported principles for sustainable biosimilar markets. This is a necessary step toward generating stakeholders' consensus on biosimilar policies.