Supply Chain

Managing supplies is a crucial part of moving medical products from the manufacturer to patient’s bedside. Efficient supply chains can reduce healthcare costs and make medical devices more affordable for patients and health systems. This news page includes content on supply shortages, inventory management, and procurement practices.

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Looming fear of more IV shortages as Hurricane Rafael gains strength

The IV solution supply chain is still recovering after Hurricane Helene damaged a manufacturing site in North Carolina. 

Walgreens settles class-action fraud lawsuit for $100M

The pharmacy chain is accused of charging insurance more for generic drugs than uninsured customers of its Prescription Saving Club.

FDA recalls infant incubators due to risk of door falling off

A loose screw on the Giraffe OmniBed is to blame. With updated use instructions and repairs, the incubators are safe to use. 

the words "FDA recall" on a board

FDA announces Class I recall of ventilators after 3 patient injuries

An unexpected nickel coating on the breathing circuits of Percussionaire Phasitron 5 ventilators is being blamed for the recall. The FDA is asking providers to stop using them immediately. 

Helene damage to bridge Baxter North Cove facility in North Carolina.

Baxter producing IV solutions ahead of schedule at Asheville-area site

The company said its largest production line at its North Carolina plant is operational, accounting for 25% of total output. The site was damaged by flood waters from Hurricane Helene. 

the words "FDA recall" on a board

FDA issues Class I update on robotic arms due to risk of fire

A protective coating on Jaco Assistive Robotic Arms from Kinova could become damaged, leading to exposed metal causing an electrical fire when it comes into contact with a powered wheelchair.

Smith Medical FDA issues BLU tracheostomy tubes FDA recall

FDA issues Class I recall on tracheostomy tubes after 12 injuries

The Smiths Medical BLUSelect and related products have a manufacturing defect and must be removed from stocks immediately. 

phenylephrine FDA

FDA approves first RSV vaccine for adults

Pfizer's Abrysvo vaccine can now be prescribed to all adults 18 and older at high risk for severe RSV complications, including pregnant women. 

Around the web

HHS has thought through the ways AI can and should become an integral part of healthcare, human services and public health. Last Friday—possibly just days ahead of seating a new secretary—the agency released a detailed plan for getting there from here.

Philips is recalling the software associated with its Mobile Cardiac Outpatient Telemetry devices after certain high-risk ECG events were never routed to trained cardiology technicians as intended. The issue, which lasted for two years, has been linked to more than 100 injuries. 

Heart Rhythm Society President Kenneth A. Ellenbogen, MD, detailed a new advocacy group focused on improving EP reimbursements, patient care and access. “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu," he said.