What ASCs should do to stay ahead of hurricane-caused drug shortages — 4 insights

An article, published in ASC Focus, offered several tips for ASCs to stay ahead of drug-shortages caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

Here's what you should know:

1. Sheldon Sones and Associates President Sheldon Sones suggests ASCs cultivate good, active relationships with wholesalers. A center could leverage this relationship in times of need.

2. Colorado Springs, Colo.-based Audubon Surgery Center COO Rochele Hovasse suggests establishing relationships with local hospitals and pharmacies as well. She said, "We have a strong relationship with our local hospital, so if we go low on a certain drug, the hospital shares it with us because the hospital gets its supplies before the ASCs do."

She echoed Mr. Sones comments about establishing relationships with distributors and vendors as well. In fact, several vendors reached out to Ms. Hovasse about possible hurricane-related shortages as soon as Hurricane Maria was developing.

3. Ms. Hovasse also recommended ASCs stock up on needed supplies. She said, "Look at your case mix to determine the level and the type of supplies you should have on hand."

4. PurNet CEO Darlene Vortherms said her company notifies its 2,000 members immediately after pharmaceutical companies inform her of potential shortages.

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Webinars

Featured Whitepapers

Featured Podcast