Sen. Blumenthal’s survey finds hospital drug shortages harming care

Yesterday, Sen. Blumenthal released a survey documenting serious drug shortages at CT hospitals. The number of drug shortages grew by 76% from 2009 to 2010. Some of the drugs in short supply are used for anesthesia, pain management, treating cancer, and acute asthma attacks. Shortages have led to drug hoarding and price gouging, according to the Senator. In some cases, shortages have led to delays in care and use of less effective medications.
Ellen Andrews