Canada's Health Minister sets out plan to help reduce impact of drug shortages

A national protocol for the public notification of drug shortages and a toolkit that identifies steps that can be taken to prevent and reduce the impact of drug shortages was announced in Canada last Friday (September 13). The protocol and toolkit are designed to put the health and safety of Canadian patients first when communicating about drug shortages.

"Our government understands the potential impact of drug shortages," said Health Minister Rona Ambrose, adding: "We are taking action and working together with all stakeholders across the healthcare system. This announcement reinforces that all levels of government and all parts of the supply chain have a role to play in communicating, addressing and preventing shortages."

The announcement will give doctors, pharmacists, health care practitioners and all stakeholders clear and concise information on drug shortages, so they can make the best decisions for their patients.