After Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico and the medical device and supply industry based there, hospitals and surgery centers are feeling the effects, The New York Times reports.
Here's what you should know:
1. IV bags are in short supplies after Baxter, the bag's manufacturer that has facilities in Puerto Rico, halted production.
2. The IV bag shortage is the most significant shortage linked to Hurricane Maria to date, but NYT expects the situation could worsen.
3. Manufacturers of hernia mesh and orthopedic instruments are limiting shipments because of reduced production capabilities.
4. FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb released a statement saying many plants were running below full capacity, with no plant operating within 70 percent of normal operation.
https://www.beckersasc.com/supply-chain/hurricanes-irma-maria-could-create-medical-device-shortages-6-insights.html
5. Puerto Rico produces almost 10 percent of all drugs consumed in America, NYT reports.