DUBLIN, Ohio – Four years after the approval of the first CAR-T cell therapies, oncologists are referring more patients for treatment and becoming more comfortable with the cost. However, payer approvals and cumbersome administrative processes are still key barriers, according to new research published from Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions.

CAR-T cell therapy uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. It works by taking blood from patients and separating out the T cells, then genetically engineering them to produce chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on their surface, which can target and kill cancer cells. Today, there are five CAR-T products approved in the United States (U.S.) for seven different indications including various lymphomas and multiple myeloma.

The perceptions and current use of CAR-T therapy by oncologists are explored in the latest edition of Oncology Insights, a biannual research-based report series authored by Cardinal Health, analyzing surveys of more than 300 U.S. oncologists. The surveys were conducted between February – April 2021, culminating in the report’s publication today.

“The innovative science behind cell therapies like CAR-T is transforming the long-term outlook for many cancer patients. Our latest research shows that, despite some barriers to access, oncologists are embracing these new therapies and are optimistic about their continued use in the future of oncology care,” said Heidi Hunter, President of Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions.

The study finds 60% of participating oncologists say that CAR-T therapy costs are either “reasonable” or “not inappropriate” versus just 39% of respondents in a similar 2017 study¹. In addition, 91% of oncologists have referred at least one patient for CAR-T therapy over the past 12 months, up from 54% and 71% in surveys²conducted in 2019.

In addition to assessing views about CAR-T, the report also explores the continued impact of COVID-19 on oncology and discusses performance in value-based care. These key findings identified:

• About two-thirds of participating oncologists report delays in routine cancer screening due to the COVID-19 pandemic;
• 89% of participants expect to continue using telemedicine after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic; and
• Nearly four in 10 participants said it is difficult or very difficult to perform well under value-based care models, and just one in four participating oncologists agree that current technologies support success in value-based care.