IFA Position Statement

Drawing on the experiences of people living with vision loss and following extensive consultations and feedback, the International Federation on Ageing (IFA) – along with retinal specialists and allied patient organizations – agree on the following position related to biosimilars in ophthalmology: Safe, effective, and appropriate treatment of eye conditions determined by treating physicians in consultation with their patients.

Preserving vision in the management and treatment of retinal diseases is unlike other conditions where biosimilars may be applied and deserves special consideration. The invaluable experiences and guidance of stakeholders in therapeutic areas, such as rheumatology, oncology, gastroenterology, and others can help inform the development of an appropriate policy framework for ophthalmic biosimilars.

The IFA is calling on retinal specialists, NGOs, ageing organizations, patient advocacy groups, and other agencies to endorse the position statement. Feel free to share the position statement with your colleagues and others in your network.

Please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Anna Sangster, Director, Policy, Advocacy and Innovation at the IFA at asangster@ifa.ngo should you have any feedback, questions or concerns with this request.