Update on Saline and Sterile Solutions Supply Chain Disruptions

 

To: Home Health Agencies, Administrators, and OASIS Coordinators From The .To: All who may be affected by the saline shortage  From: HFEMSD We are reaching out with updates on the supply chain disruptions affecting saline and other sterile solutions due to Hurricane Helene. The recent storm impacted the Baxter facility in North Carolina, which supplies a significant portion of IV solutions and irrigation fluids across the U.S. This has led to a temporary shortage of normal saline IV fluids, irrigation fluids, sterile water, and certain dextrose solutions. Baxter has resumed shipping to hospitals and dialysis centers, and other global plants are scaling production to support U.S. needs. However, due to continued disruptions, certain products remain on allocation. Current and Upcoming Actions: Supply Coordination: HHS and ASPR are working with public and private partners to stabilize the supply chain, expedite FDA assessments of alternative products, and increase domestic manufacturing. Preparation for Further Storm Impact: With Hurricane Milton potentially affecting supply, assets are being pre-deployed, and production is being shifted from at-risk areas. Guidance for Providers: HHS encourages providers to: Evaluate and conserve supplies, prioritizing critical use cases. Review guidance from Baxter and ASHP on managing and conserving fluids effectively. Baxter is working directly with customers regarding allocations, and additional updates are available on their website. HHS will continue to coordinate with manufacturers and distributors and keep healthcare providers informed as this situation evolves. Baxter newsroom Hurricane Helene updates ASHP - fluid shortages suggestions for management and conservation Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work through these supply chain challenges together. .