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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CVS’ Omnicare files for bankruptcy after $949M judgment

In May, a jury found the CVS subsidiary liable for filing 3.3 million fraudulent insurance claims between 2010 and 2018. The $949 million judgment was imposed in July.

Joysticks recalled after power wheelchairs move on their own, injuring a patient

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a recall of Mo-Vis BVBA joysticks after a faulty firmware version was linked to the malfunction. Users will need to have their devices upgraded.

FDA designates recall of Hamilton breathing circuits a Class I

Two lots of breathing circuits manufactured by Hamilton Medical have a defect that could cause the tubing to splinter. The affected devices must be quarantined, as they cannot be safely used on patients.

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FDA announces recall of Integra applicators due to sanitation risk

Multiple lots of extended tip applicators from Integra LifeSciences could put patients at risk of serious infection, prompting the FDA to designate the recall as Class I.

B. Braun recalls IV solutions over serious patient safety risks

Two lots of IV solution bags from the company were found to contain particulate matter that could cause blockages in blood vessels, killing a patient. To date, no serious adverse events have been reported.

Tandem Diabetes Care is recalling a recent update of the mobile app for its t:slim X2 insulin pump due to repeated software issues that may cause the pump to shut down unexpectedly. The FDA has said this is a Class I recall.

Error with Tandem insulin pumps causes 700 adverse events, 59 injuries

A malfunctioning speaker is being blamed for the error code, which effectively pauses infusions on t:slim X2 insulin pumps. Tandem Diabetes Care has promised to release a software patch to improve the safety of the devices.

the words "FDA recall" on a board

FDA issues early alert on Baxter infusion pumps after 3 serious injuries

Some Baxter Novum IQ pumps have a software issue that can cause the “run” screen to go blank or trigger another system error, potentially resulting in inadequate infusion. The company has issued updated use instructions to ensure safe operation.

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FDA recalls breathing system filters after multiple injuries

Multiple lots of Draeger SafeStar and TwinStar filters—which are typically used during mechanical ventilation—are being removed from where they’re used and sold due to erroneous carbon dioxide readings.