Drug shortages have become an increasingly pressing issue in the United States. According to the University of Utah Drug Information Service, the first quarter of 2024 saw an all-time high of 323 active drug shortages. This represents an 86% increase from the 10-year low of 174 shortages recorded in 2017. The impact is felt across various medications, even medications used in hospital crash carts.
At Cooper, the Pharmacy Department faces an average of 75 medication shortages daily. Despite these challenges, the pharmacy team has implemented strategies and tactics to mitigate disruptions in patient care.
- Identification and Inventory Assessment: When a medication shortage is identified, the pharmacy team assesses accurate inventory levels and days-on-hand supply.
- Procurement Efforts: The hospital collaborates with wholesalers and other vendors to enhance existing inventory supply. Procurement specialists work to find alternative sources and agents.
- Clinical Collaboration: The clinical pharmacy team and physicians collaborate to create alerts and recommend equivalent therapeutic alternatives for affected medications.
- Provider Education: All health care providers are educated about new alternatives to ensure seamless transitions during shortages.
- Continuous Monitoring: The pharmacy team monitors shortages regularly to track trends and assess whether the situation is improving or worsening.
The pharmacy team will continue to actively monitor and work to alleviate these shortages.