We said “never again”, we will be prepared next time. Well, not to cause mass chaos, but the tragedy at the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26 is predicted to cause significant ripples in the U.S. supply chain. The healthcare supply chain may experience short-term effects such as delayed deliveries and restocking issues until deliveries can be re-routed.

According to Becker’s, manufacturers, distributors and healthcare providers in the area will have to continue evaluating what goes through the Baltimore port and diversions could impact other East Coast ports and deliveries of critical medical supplies, devices, and medications as well.

What to do now? Hopefully you are in a good place, have a sufficient stock of needed supplies and medications, have an open line of communication with your pharmacy provider and are taking a close look at all referrals to be sure you are prepared to provide appropriate care. If you aren’t sure that you have enough PPE to maintain Enhanced Barrier Precautions (hot button right now), please go back to your PPE burn rate calculator (link below) and evaluate your status. It is never too late to raise the flag and ask for help. And we said it could never happen again! Stay well and stay informed!