The current paradigm for biologic initiation: a confirmatory quantitative analysis of self-injection training practices

Background Self-injected biologic therapies have gained significant prevalence across numerous therapeutic areas. A lack of specific guidance on best practices may lead to inadequate biologic initiation and training. We previously conducted a small-sample, qualitative analysis designed to identify gaps in self-injection training. Methods A total of 277 HCPs performing routine biologic initiation and 264 patients currently self-injecting biologics completed this quantitative study remotely using an online survey. The primary objective was to validate previous qualitative findings and firmly characterize the current paradigm. As an exploratory objective, the study examined associations that may exist between training experiences and patient-reported outcomes. Results Most patients (91.7%) reported receiving formal self-injection training, commonly conducted over one or two sessions. The mean overall training time reported was 37.8 and 30.4 minutes by patients and HCPs, respectively. Over one-third of patients reported lacking confidence that they could correctly self-inject during the first 6 months of treatment. Conclusion Current training practices may not be adequate to prepare patients to start their therapies. Considerable attention must be paid to providing patients with multiple opportunities for training sessions, training devices, and medical information for home access. Further studies should prospectively examine the impact of training techniques on patient-reported outcomes.