New House Legislation Would Enhance Pandemic Preparedness, Strengthen Medical Supply Chain

Alexandria, VA, May 24, 2021 - Legislation to improve the nation’s response to future emergencies by increasing collaboration between the government and medical products distributors was introduced today in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Medical Supplies for Pandemics Act, was introduced by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-IN).

“Medical products distributors have the experience and expertise to help manage and distribute PPE and other essential products, and this bill ensures that critical knowhow can be put to even better use for the American people,” said HIDA President & CEO Matthew J. Rowan. “A well-managed and maintained strategic reserve of PPE and other medical supplies is a critical component of pandemic preparedness.”

The Medical Supplies for Pandemics Act (H.R. 3463) creates a preparedness framework built on a public/private partnership. The bill would make improvements to the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) by:

• Enhanced Partnerships With Distributors: The SNS would partner with commercial distributors to manage inventory and prevent expiration of critical pandemic supplies such as PPE, test kits, and infection prevention products.
• Diversified Production: The SNS would work with manufacturers to diversify production sources of medical supplies.
• Investing in Increased Surge Manufacturing Capacity: The SNS would work with manufacturers on innovative approaches to ensure there can be enhanced production of supplies during emergencies.

HIDA resources on issues related to the pandemic, the healthcare supply chain, and the role of distributors can be found here.

About HIDA
The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) represents the country’s medical product distributors – the nation’s essential link between manufacturers and patient caregivers. HIDA members offer critical services increasing the efficiency of U.S. healthcare providers, including hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, home care, and physician practices. For more information, visit HIDA.org.