The healthcare system of the U.S. is increasingly challenged by prescription drug shortages. But what are the root causes for this problem and how can these shortages be mitigated?
Which role plays effective supply chain management in that setting?
This paper addresses these questions and discusses possible approaches to strengthen the pharmaceutical supply chain in the U.S.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Impact of drug shortages
- Causes of drug shortages
- Suppliers of raw materials
- Drug manufacturers
- Wholesale distributors
- Other supply chain actors
- Demand and supply elasticity
- Actions for improvement
- Recommendations to mitigate prescription drug shortages
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the issue of prescription drug shortages in the United States, analyzing the root causes and exploring potential solutions to mitigate this critical problem. The paper aims to highlight the role of effective supply chain management in addressing drug shortages and to propose strategies for strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain. Key themes explored in this paper include:- The impact of drug shortages on patient care and the healthcare system
- The complexity of the pharmaceutical supply chain and its vulnerability to disruptions
- The role of demand forecasting accuracy and inventory management in preventing shortages
- The challenges of managing production capacity and mitigating the effects of consolidation in the industry
- Potential solutions to mitigate drug shortages through improved supply chain management practices
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter introduces the growing problem of prescription drug shortages in the United States, highlighting the significant impact on patient care and the healthcare system. The chapter also sets the stage for examining the root causes and potential solutions.
- Impact of drug shortages: This chapter delves into the consequences of drug shortages, exploring their impact on patient care, medication errors, clinical effectiveness, safety issues, financial burdens on hospitals, and the emergence of gray markets. The chapter emphasizes the critical need for effective solutions to prevent and mitigate drug shortages.
- Causes of drug shortages: This chapter explores the various factors contributing to drug shortages, focusing on challenges within the pharmaceutical supply chain. It analyzes the roles of raw material suppliers, drug manufacturers, wholesale distributors, other supply chain actors, and the interplay of demand and supply elasticity in perpetuating shortages. The chapter identifies specific vulnerabilities within each stage of the supply chain that contribute to the problem.
- Actions for improvement: This chapter examines recent attempts to address the worsening situation of drug shortages, including governmental initiatives and private sector collaborations. It focuses on initiatives aimed at enhancing communication and coordination within the supply chain, strengthening data collection, and increasing production capacity. While acknowledging these efforts, the chapter highlights the need for more comprehensive solutions that tackle the root causes of shortages.
- Recommendations to mitigate prescription drug shortages: This chapter concludes by identifying key areas for improvement in supply chain management to mitigate drug shortages. It emphasizes the need for better inventory management practices, improved demand forecasting accuracy, and addressing challenges related to manufacturing and production capacity. The chapter advocates for a proactive approach to preventing drug shortages by tackling the underlying causes rather than solely mitigating symptoms.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper focuses on the critical issues surrounding prescription drug shortages, highlighting the complexities of the pharmaceutical supply chain, demand forecasting accuracy, and the impact of industry consolidation on the availability of essential medications. Key areas of focus include: drug shortages, pharmaceutical supply chain, inventory management, demand forecasting, production capacity, sterile injectable drugs, generic drugs, and industry consolidation.
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- Isabelle Köhler (Author), 2013, Drug Shortage Mitigation through Supply Chain Management, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/269511
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