Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists

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** Board, Division and Committee Members only

MANUFACTURER DRUG SHORTAGES

The Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists (ICHP) supports the following principles with regard to pharmaceutical manufacturer shortages:

Healthcare systems establish policies and procedures to secure products in times of acute shortages, such as formal arrangements with other pharmacies for borrowing.
Healthcare systems establish policies and procedures to ensure the quality of products obtained from alternative distribution sources, for instance, verification of appropriate regulatory compliance.
The FDA establishes a rapid and reasonable mechanism to respond to changes in demand of products that require allocation from the FDA.
Manufacturers, wholesalers and other distributors should give priority distribution to providers caring for patients at the highest risk of an adverse outcome without the product that is in short supply.
Pharmacists assist in the identification and implementation of clinical and operational plans when products are not available so as to minimize the risk of adverse events.
Manufacturers and wholesalers provide timely communication regarding shortages and potential shortages, including projected timeframes for resolution.
Pharmacists communicate with national professional organizations and governmental agencies to assist in identification of shortages and potential consequences and recommend alternative strategies.
Pharmacies avoid stockpiling inventory beyond reasonable patient care needs.
Pharmacists utilize national guidelines and technical assistance bulletins.

Revised 08/2010

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