A substantial recent uptick in shortages for a range of clinical products being reported by hospitals is a potential cause for concern. Recent products affected include: specialty blood culture vials, EKG paper, IV administration sets and many more.
Reasons for these issues include ongoing production issues for some manufacturers, product recalls that are limiting supply, and a growing volume of severe weather events (flooding, hurricanes, etc.) that are delaying deliveries and further compounding logistics challenges. These conditions are expected to persist throughout the summer, likely longer, and hospitals should anticipate that more shortages will occur.
Here are some recommendations to help navigate possible shortages:
- Maintain a close watch on inventory levels for all critical products, particularly any with existing orders that are delayed or inventory positions that are getting low.
- Closely monitor the status of orders for any products of concern. Proactively communicate with suppliers who ideally will keep you informed as issues arise, but don’t count on it. Don’t forget that with many vacations during the summer months, your account may be temporarily covered by another rep who is less familiar with your needs.
- Dust off contingency plans. Some clinical products don’t have readily available, or even viable substitute options. Have a backup plan, however undesirable, to buffer your patients and staff from the potential impact of product shortages.