Objectives: While the first CAR T-cell (CAR-T) therapy was approved in 2017, idecabtagene vicleucel, a BCMA-directed agent, is the first CAR-T product approved to treat relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM), in March 2021. The experiences with and perceptions of this CAR-T therapy regimen among community-based hematologists/oncologists (cH/O) are of value to patients, pharma manufacturers, and payers.

Methods: Practicing U.S. cH/O completed a web-based survey before a virtual meeting in August 2021 and responded to audience response system (ARS) questions during the meeting. The survey collected demographic information, and the ARS questions assessed experiences and perceptions regarding CAR-T therapy in MM. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results: Participants (N=45) specialized in hematology/oncology (64%, n=29) and medical oncology (36%, n=16), spent 81% of their working time in direct patient care, and saw 21 patients per day, on average. The majority practiced in community-based settings (73%, n=33). In the past 5 months, approximately half (51%, n=23,) had treated or referred 1-2 MM patients for CAR-T therapy and 29% (n=13) treated/referred none. Participants identified safety/toxicity (33%, n=15), access (24%, n=11), and cost (18%, n=8) as concerns regarding CAR-T therapy. Few 11% (n=5) cited immature efficacy data. The majority 96% (n=43) were very likely (44%, n=20) or somewhat likely (51%, n=23) to treat/refer appropriate patients with MM for CAR-T therapy.

Conclusions: Surveyed cH/Os have limited experience with CAR-T therapy in MM and expressed concerns about its efficacy, safety, and accessibility. However, the majority would be very or somewhat likely to include it in treatment plans for MM when appropriate. Given the limited role of CAR-T therapy for MM in community settings, education for cH/Os on its recent indication in MM may be appropriate. Future research is needed on referral patterns and inclusion of CAR-T in treatment plans in community settings.