The Long and the Short of Missing Medicines

Abstract

Who would have thought that in the most recent decade of the 21st century, shortages of medicines would be on the rise? As the authors will show, it is not simply about price, but involves other factors such as sudden outbreaks of a disease or diseases, a lack of raw materials, manufacturing issues and high demand. Shortages of medicines can lead to higher costs and lower quality and safety of care, while unavailable medicines tend to be substituted with often less effective medicines, which can even be more costly. Possible solutions involve a monitoring of supply chains and “early warning” systems as well as Member States getting together to purchase medicines as a group. There is no single answer, and there is much work to be done.