HDA Blog

Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, HDA healthcare distributors recognized the vital role that philanthropy plays in building healthier communities — and the industry’s responsibility in leading these efforts. 

Since the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) was enacted nearly 10 years ago, healthcare supply chain stakeholders have made steady progress in meeting regularly (through HDA and other settings) to discuss compliance strategies, establish recommended guidelines and build consensus on key milestones.

With the Delta variant surging across the United States, the fight against COVID-19 — and in turn, the most extensive vaccination campaign in our country’s history — is far from over. As the effects of the virus continue to reverberate, the Biden administration recently authorized booster shots, and the Food and Drug Administration granted full approval of the first COVID-19 vaccine in an effort to increase vaccination rates across the U.S.

Earlier this month, HDA published two new resources for supply chain stakeholders to ensure the proper handling of new products moving through the supply chain and removal of products that are recalled or need to be withdrawn.

HDA recently sponsored and participated in the Milken Institute’s 2021 Future of Health Summit. This year’s event, held on June 22–23, brought together industry experts, public health leaders and elected officials for insightful policy discussions on a variety of issues that are shaping healthcare in our country.

HDA President and CEO Chip Davis recently spoke at the 2021 BLC Online about the unique role of the healthcare distribution industry in combating COVID-19, how distributors continue to rise to its challenges and what is still needed to turn the corner on the pandemic, among other association priorities.

A new report estimates that the overall health costs of climate change already exceed $820 billion each year. The healthcare sector alone is responsible for nearly 5 percent of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. According to a December 2020 Health Affairs study, “health damages stemming from U.S. [healthcare] pollution in 2013 [are] on the same order of magnitude as deaths from preventable medical errors.” Unfortunately, many of the most vulnerable communities are impacted by the harmful effects of climate change.

Discussions surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) are critically important to the healthcare distribution industry as this work ultimately strengthens the industry’s ability to deliver safe, affordable and efficient healthcare to patients across the nation. Earlier this month, HDA hosted a virtual discussion with four industry leaders who are fostering belonging within their organizations.

Protecting the steady supply of critical, lifesaving medicines to hospitals, pharmacies, providers and patients is a complex process in normal times. During COVID-19, patient demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and other products has escalated significantly, adding new and unique challenges for HDA distributor members who are working around the clock to meet the daily healthcare needs of all Americans.

For the past year, I have watched the men and women of the healthcare distribution industry go above and beyond on a daily basis to make sure medicines, vaccines, PPE and other medical supplies reached patients and providers across the country. Their energy, determination and commitment have ensured a resilient supply chain during the most challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic and a distribution network that has continued to deliver value each and every day.