The AMA provides members an update on the member response to our survey on the IV fluid shortage situation.
Last week, the AMA closed a survey sent to members regarding national supply constraints for common intravenous fluid solutions across the health sector.
We want to thank members for their high engagement with the survey. Of those who contributed to the survey, an overwhelming majority were aware of the IV shortage, most commonly through their workplace rather than from the media or other sources.
It is clear from the feedback that the degree of impact varies greatly across health contexts. In some contexts, shortages may not be felt, while in others it is stimulating changes in medical practice and protocol or delays in treatment.
One of the key concerns members raised in the survey was the lack of communication regarding the shortage across governments and stakeholders beyond the standard reporting of shortages through the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Member feedback demonstrated a clear desire to see a coordinated response that ensures all practitioners are kept informed. They want to know the degree of medical shortages, how they are being managed and assurance that appropriate action is being taken to guarantee supply chains for essential products are protected.
Your feedback informed communication to federal and state/territory health from all AMA presidents calling for a concerted and transparent national response to medicine shortages such as this.
This week, the AMA Vice President attended the National IV Fluid Shortage working group. Through this body and all means available, the AMA will continue to advocate for more effective communication regarding the status of national stockpiles and their equitable distribution to the most critical health settings.
