U.S. Drug Shortages Fell 23% in 2024 Despite Ongoing Systemic Supply Issues
Prescription drug shortages in the United States decreased by 23% in 2024 according to a new analysis, but systemic supply chain problems persist. The analysis identified ongoing structural vulnerabilities in pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution that continue to affect medication availability. While the overall number of shortages declined, the duration and severity of certain shortages worsened. For Medicaid managed care organizations, drug shortages create formulary management challenges, increase member access barriers, and complicate pharmacy benefit administration when preferred products become unavailable.
Drug shortages force MCOs to manage formulary disruptions, implement therapeutic substitutions, and address member access complaints while maintaining quality metrics and contract compliance.
Pharmacy · Managed Care
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