| answer text |
<p>Medicine supply problems can occur for several reasons. For example, they can be
due to manufacturing difficulties, regulatory problems, problems with the supply of
raw materials, sudden demand spikes or from issues which are related to the distribution
of the product. The production of medicines is complex and highly regulated, and materials
and processes must meet rigorous safety and quality standards. Occasionally, the National
Health Service experiences temporary shortages of specific medicines.</p><p> </p><p>We
know how frustrating and distressing the possibility of shortages can be and we acknowledge
that there have been challenges recently with access to a limited number of medicines.
We want to assure patients that the Department has well-established processes to prevent,
manage and mitigate medicine shortages and works with the pharmaceutical industry,
the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, NHS England, the devolved
governments and others operating in the supply chain to help ensure patients have
access to the treatments they need.</p><p> </p><p>The Department routinely shares
information about medicine supply issues directly with the NHS so they can put management
plans in place to mitigate the risk of the shortage impacting patients and inform
their patients about what it might mean for them. If any patient is concerned about
their treatment, they should discuss this with their pharmacist or general practitioner.</p>
|
|
