IV Solution Shortage Updates
Connecticut hospitals and health systems have implemented action plans to manage and conserve critical intravenous (IV) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) fluids after flood damage from Hurricane Helene forced a Baxter International facility in North Carolina to shut down, triggering a nationwide shortage. Connecticut healthcare providers continue to employ alternative hydration and medication delivery methods. They remain committed to preserving quality of patient care.
CHA is monitoring impacts on operations throughout the state in collaboration with providers and the Connecticut Departments of Public Health (DPH) and Consumer Protection (DCP). CHA is communicating to Connecticut congressional delegation staff the experiences of hospitals and health systems and their concerns, in addition to discussing strategies to prevent IV solution supply chain disruptions in the future. CHA also continues to advocate for the federal government to incentivize manufacturers to expand production of materials and goods needed for sterile IV and PD solutions and containers.
This page is regularly updated with local and national information on the shortage, details on CHA’s advocacy efforts to mitigate the challenges posed by the disruption, and resources to inform conservation strategies.
CHA Updates
October 31: Expiry Extension for Baxter IV Solutions Authorized Amid Nationwide Shortage
October 24: IV Solution Imports To Alleviate Nationwide Shortage Arrive in U.S.
October 17: Connecticut Hospitals, Health Systems Conserving IV Solutions Amid Nationwide Shortage
October 10: Connecticut Hospitals, Health Systems Mitigating Impacts of Nationwide IV Fluid Shortage
NBC CT: Connecticut hospitals monitor possible IV fluid shortage after hurricane
Hartford Courant: CT hospitals grapple with national IV fluid supply shortage; ‘working closely with our suppliers’
Resources
AHA Updates
CDC Health Advisory
Extended Expiration Dates for Baxter Product Codes
Baxter Clinical Resources
Baxter Operational Updates
ASHP Management and Conservation Suggestions
Efforts to increase domestic supply:
The Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau warned that law enforcement would use every tool available to stop price gouging, price fixing and other illegal scams. They encourage people to report violations at www.justice.gov or www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Contact Baxter
For customers who need additional assistance beyond their existing communications channels with Baxter, please contact HurricaneHeleneSupport@baxter.com, particularly if they are in dire need of product.