A recent study compared the likelihood of drug shortages in Canada and the United States and found that Canada was 40% less likely to experience meaningful shortages. The study analyzed 104 reports of supply chain issues for dozens of drugs and revealed that the Canadian government’s approach played a significant role in preventing shortages.
From 2017 to 2021, both the U.S. and Canada received an equal number of reports regarding potential shortages for 96 medicines. However, only 34% of the reports filed with Health Canada resulted in meaningful shortages, compared to 49% of reports received by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This difference highlights the effectiveness of Canada’s strategies in managing drug supply chain issues.
The study also identified that the shortage risk for Tier 3 medicines in Canada was significantly lower when compared to the combined reports from the U.S. and Canada. Tier 3 medicines are those that have the highest potential impact on the country’s drug supply and healthcare system. A dedicated government committee in Canada oversees the assessment of risk and impact, as well as the implementation of necessary actions to prevent shortages.
Overall, the findings of the study emphasize the importance of proactive measures and government intervention in mitigating drug shortages. By closely monitoring supply chain issues and taking timely actions, countries like Canada can effectively prevent disruptions in the availability of essential medicines.
It is crucial for other countries to learn from Canada’s approach and implement similar strategies to ensure a stable drug supply chain and protect public health. By prioritizing the assessment of supply chain risks and establishing dedicated committees for oversight, governments can minimize the impact of drug shortages and safeguard access to vital medications for their populations.
In conclusion, the study’s insights shed light on the significance of proactive measures and government involvement in addressing drug shortages. With the right strategies in place, countries can enhance their resilience to supply chain disruptions and maintain a reliable availability of essential medicines for their citizens.
