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.

FDA issues Class I safety alert on malfunctioning infusion pumps
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is calling this a recall, an updated set of use instructions of Smiths Medical, the manufacturer of the pumps, will allow for their safe, continued use.
Cigna, CVS sue to block Arkansas' PBM regulation
The newly signed law, known as Act 264, bans pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies in the state. It's scheduled to go into effect beginning in 2026.
FDA issues Class I alert on emergency use esophagogastric tubes
A serious issue with esophagogastric balloon tamponade tubes manufactured by BD could cause the devices to break, potentially delaying care for bleeding patients. Clinicians are advised to review and follow updated use instructions.
Rite Aid sells over 1,000 pharmacies to competitors, including CVS and Walgreens
The deals account for most of Rite Aid’s remaining stores, as the bankrupt chain nears its final days.
Small pharmacies stockpile drugs as tariff fears grow
KFF Health News interviewed multiple independent pharmacies for a new report, detailing their basements full of generic and specialty drugs as a hedge against supply shocks.

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.

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.

Why is the US still dependent on foreign medical isotope production?

The U.S currently does not have any large-scale commercial production of the isotope Mo-99 used for nuclear imaging. It is critical to more 40,000 nuclear imaging exams each day, representing about 80% of all diagnostic molecular imaging procedures.

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.

Some nuc med departments are already feeling the strain of the isotope shortage

"This can't drag on. Patients needing cancer treatment can’t wait two months for an accurate diagnosis.”

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.

Supply Chain

FDA issues Class I safety alert on malfunctioning infusion pumps

Cigna, CVS sue to block Arkansas' PBM regulation

FDA issues Class I alert on emergency use esophagogastric tubes

Rite Aid sells over 1,000 pharmacies to competitors, including CVS and Walgreens

Small pharmacies stockpile drugs as tariff fears grow