Port strike could cause severe healthcare supply shortages, AORN warns

Editor's Note

A joint communication from AORN and the Association of Healthcare Value Analysis Professionals (AHVAP, a strategic partner of AORN) provides advice and resources for affiliated healthcare professionals who could be impacted by the recent strike by port workers across major US shipping ports.

Issued September 30, the statement notes that the then-pending strike was “raising serious concerns” about supply chain disruptions. “The healthcare sector, which relies heavily on timely deliveries of surgical instruments, medical devices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and pharmaceuticals, could face severe shortages in the coming weeks,” it reads. “These disruptions will likely have direct consequences for our perioperative teams, increasing the risk of delayed surgeries, treatment interruptions, and shortages of critical supplies.”

According to the statement, these shortages could include surgical trays, sutures, sterilization supplies, and medications, including anesthetics used in perioperative care. Meanwhile, costs could increase for supplies that remain in circulation. In response, the organizations recommend the following immediate actions:

• Conduct a thorough inventory review, prioritizing procurement of essentials as well as alternative products and vendors
• Communicate with suppliers to ensure early awareness of delays
• Explore the possibility of resource-sharing agreements with other health organizations.

The full announcement offers links to lists of device and medication shortages as well as a resource page for AORN members.