WASHINGTON D.C.–(ENEWSPF)–November 1, 2011. Yesterday, Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) released the following statement in response to an executive order signed by the President directing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to broaden reporting of shortages of certain prescription drugs and expedite regulatory reviews that can help prevent shortage. A study from the American Hospital Association earlier this year found that more than 80 percent of surveyed hospitals delayed needed treatments and restricted access to drugs to manage a depleting supply of drugs.
“No one should ever be in the position of going without the prescription drugs they need because of shortages. Yet, I have heard from too many of my constituents — physicians and patients – that is in fact the case. As a cosponsor of the Preserving Access to Life-Saving Medications Act, H.R. 2245, I believe Congress should act as soon as possible. In the meantime, I am grateful that President Obama has outlined immediate actions to help us identify shortages, expedite reviews to make medications available, and protect patients and taxpayers from price gouging.
The President’s announcement is a very welcome step but it alone is not enough. Congress must come up with a solution to address the factors behind the shortages, including a lack of raw materials, manufacturing problems, and unexpected demand – while also ensuring that prescription drugs are safe and available.”
Source: schakowsky.house.gov
