Challenges associated with access to recently developed hemophilia treatments in routine care: perspectives of healthcare professionals

Abstract

The treatment landscape for haemophilia continues to rapidly develop, and expectations for future treatment success are high. There is limited information on the challenges to accessing new and innovative therapies. The aim of this study was to explore challenges with accessing haemophilia treatment from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs). A crosssectional study design was used. A pilot-tested, online survey was distributed to haemophilia treatment centres in Australia, Canada, France, Italy, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Turkey, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The questionnaire covered questions on product access, economic considerations, health technology assessment requirements, and patient organization involvement. The results were analyzed descriptively using SPSS. A total of 154 HCPs completed the questionnaire. There was heterogeneity across countries, regions, and centres regarding HCPs’ knowledge of access to novel recently developed treatments. Notable limitations to access were reported such as differences in access based on age of patient and type of product, economic considerations, and the growing influence of HTA bodies. Many countries have a hemophilia patient organization that does not have a vote at the decision-making table. There is a need to empower HCPs to better understand national healthcare structures and decisions that lead to access limitations. Requirements from HTA bodies must be understood to optimally design clinical studies and value generation of treatment options. This may strengthen the haemophilia treatment centre’s voice to collectively mandate for exchange with key involved individuals, such as the payers and politicians for the provision of optimal therapy.