Unraveling The Drug Shortage Crisis

Drug shortages have become a persistent challenge for pharmacies, disrupting patient care and operational efficiency. Contributing factors include manufacturing issues, supply chain disruptions, insufficient acquisition of raw materials, and increased demand. Frequently, patient care is adversely affected by drug substitutions that may be ineffective or have unintended consequences, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Drug shortages were significantly amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, exposing vulnerabilities when pharmaceutical companies had to shift focus from drug discovery and development to address large-scale demand for critical medical products. Typically, a local shortage in the supply chain could find a solution by moving or shifting products from unaffected markets. A spike in demand, as highlighted by the pandemic, hampered the supply chain cycle, eliminating traditional solutions. Here are some best practices to ensure pharmacies thrive when a crisis emerges again.

Leveraging partnerships and technology

Mitigating the risk of drug shortages requires a proactive strategy and approach. Diversifying the supply chain by establishing relationships with multiple vendors and suppliers can ensure a more stable drug supply. Purchasers can also explore alternative products from a different manufacturer or sourcing from a secondary wholesaler. In addition, investing in and implementing efficient inventory management systems with real-time tracking and demand forecasting capabilities can optimize stock levels. Modeling utilization trends can also add awareness to potential shortages, enabling early measures to mitigate the severity and duration.

What about outsourcing?

Overcoming drug shortages requires exploring alternative strategies to minimize disruption. Drug compounding involves combining, mixing, or altering ingredients to create a medication tailored to an individual patient's needs. Compounding pharmacies can address shortages in real-time by utilizing bulk drug substances or active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). The biologically active ingredient of a drug product that produces the intended effect is known as the API. Outsourcing facilities are registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), comply with current good manufacturing practice requirements, and can compound drugs that are identical or nearly identical to FDA-approved drugs that are in short supply.

Building strong relationships

Cultivating strong client relationships is crucial during drug shortages. Pharmacies can proactively communicate with clients about potential shortages and offer alternative treatment options. Implementing education programs can also empower a deeper understanding of disease and medications used to manage these conditions. Relationship building can engender trust and transparency with clients, fostering loyalty and support during challenging times. By prioritizing these basic tenets and providing exceptional service, pharmacies can enhance market share through a strong position in the community.

Thriving amidst challenges

Drug shortages present significant obstacles for pharmacies but also offer opportunities for growth and innovation. By diversifying suppliers, implementing technology solutions, outsourcing to compound pharmacies, and prioritizing client relationships, pharmacies can attenuate the impact of shortages and maintain a strong position primed for long-term success. These principles can enable pharmacies to navigate the complexities of drug shortages and continue to provide essential services to the community.