How the DHSC Manages Medicine Supply

The Medicine Supply Team

The DHSC operates a dedicated Medicine Supply Team that works year-round to manage supply disruptions. This team:

• Monitors supply notifications from manufacturers (who are legally required to report anticipated disruptions)
• Coordinates between manufacturers, wholesalers, and the NHS
• Issues Serious Shortage Protocols when needed
• Works with the MHRA on regulatory solutions
• Manages the strategic medicine stockpile
• Publishes supply updates for healthcare professionals

Key Tools and Mechanisms

Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs)

SSPs are the DHSC's primary tool for managing active shortages. When issued, they allow pharmacists to supply approved alternatives without a new prescription. This keeps patients on treatment while the supply issue is resolved.

Each SSP specifies exactly what alternatives are permitted and for how long. They're published on the NHSBSA website and communicated to pharmacies through NHS systems.

Strategic Stockpile

The UK maintains a strategic stockpile of essential medicines for emergencies. Originally built for pandemic and no-deal Brexit scenarios, this stockpile has been expanded and formalised post-COVID. It includes:

• Antibiotics and antivirals
• Insulin and other critical chronic disease medications
• Emergency and intensive care medicines
• Vaccines

The stockpile is rotated to prevent expiry, with older stock entering normal supply channels.

Manufacturer Notification Requirements

Under UK regulations, pharmaceutical companies must notify the DHSC of any expected or actual supply disruption. The typical notification timeline is:

• 6 months notice for discontinuations
• As early as possible for unexpected supply issues
• Ongoing updates on resolution timelines

Import and Export Controls

The DHSC can restrict the parallel export of medicines from the UK to other countries during shortages. This ensures UK supply isn't depleted by commercial exports to higher-paying markets.

Limitations

Despite these tools, the DHSC faces significant limitations:

• It cannot force manufacturers to produce specific medicines
• Global supply issues are beyond UK government control
• Increasing production of controlled substances requires international coordination
• Information from manufacturers can be incomplete or delayed
• Funding for stockpiling has limits

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