The End Drug Shortages Alliance has released new research examining the effects of recurring shortages of injectable hydromorphone, morphine and fentanyl on hospitals, clinicians and patients.
The report draws on interviews with healthcare supply chain stakeholders and survey responses from 43 pharmacy executives and 104 frontline clinicians, according to a July 24 news release.
Here are six findings to know:
- Fifty-three percent of clinicians said shortages have led to avoidable adverse events for patients.
- Sixty-nine percent of clinicians reported delays in patient care because of shortages.
- One in 3 pharmacy executives reported medication errors or near misses tied to shortages.
- Seventy-four percent of pharmacy executives said shortages increased medication waste.
- Stakeholders identified market concentration, manufacturing challenges and demand fluctuations as contributors to shortages but consistently cited the Drug Enforcement Administration’s quota system as a significant upstream constraint unique to Schedule II controlled substances.
- The alliance recommended six reforms to the Drug Enforcement Administration’s quota system to improve quota approval timing, implementation and transparency and strengthen supply resilience.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
