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News & Trends - MedTech & Diagnostics

Global shortage or government negligence? Controversy continues over IV fluid supply

Health Industry Hub | August 26, 2024 |

MedTech & Diagnostics News: Government officials and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have been attributing the shortage of IV fluids to a “global supply shortage,” but this claim is facing continued scepticism. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and New Zealand’s Pharmac have reported no significant supply issues, raising critical questions.

“It was disingenuous of the minister to say this was a global shortage, as if to say that the Albanese Labor government didn’t need to take any responsibility for the fact that we find ourselves in this position,” emphasised Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care.

Over the weekend, Professor Steve Robson, President of the Australian Medical Association (AMA), visited Sydney’s only IV fluids manufacturing facility operated by Baxter.

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Expressing newfound appreciation for the manufacturing process, Professor Robson acknowledged Baxter’s role, which supplies approximately 75% of Australia’s IV fluids, with additional contributions from overseas suppliers B. Braun and Fresenius Kabi.

“I now understand the extraordinary complexity and precision required to make bags of medical-grade intravenous solutions,” Professor Robson remarked.

Addressing clinical adjustments amid the shortage, the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) advised anaesthetists to limit fluid consumption during surgeries where marginal benefits are anticipated.

Despite these measures, some scheduled surgeries may face potential delays in the coming months. However, ANZCA noted that emergency procedures and cancer surgeries are likely to proceed as planned.

“Monitoring supplies and fostering transparent communication between health leaders and clinicians will be essential in mitigating disruptions to surgical services,” emphasised ANZCA.

Concerns have been raised about the impact of global events, such as the conflict in the Red Sea, which has reportedly affected shipments to Australia, forcing vessels to divert around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. Other theories on social media suggest that the U.S. may be stockpiling IV fluids for troops in the Middle East amid escalating tensions.

According to NSW Health’s communication last week, “The Ministry of Health, with the Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC) and HealthShare NSW, are continuing to provide state level oversight and management through the centralisation of NSW Health’s supply of sodium chloride and Hartmann’s solution IV fluid bags through the OneLink warehouse. 

“This, combined with ongoing efforts locally (including submission of twice weekly QARS audit data and IV fluid stewardship groups/programs), is ensuring every facility can provide their usual clinical service activity with an ongoing focus on safe and high-quality care.”

NSW hospitals have been cautioned against obtaining IV fluid bags directly from wholesalers or suppliers, reinforcing efforts to maintain supply chain integrity amid ongoing challenges.

In Victoria, health services continue to face challenges and have been advised that “it is critical that all IV fluids are used judiciously”.

The supply challenges extend to the nation’s vets. The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) met with several MPs at Parliament House in Canberra last week.

“We stressed the impact of the supply crisis on the veterinary profession and advocated for better supply chain management and increased transparency on supply issues,” said AVA President, Dr Sally Colgan.

“It’s important for emergency cases, as these animals need fluids or they may die. Then there are also routine procedures where fluids are absolutely essential as well.”

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