The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) sent a letter to Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) expressing support for S.296, the "Preserving Access to Life-Saving Medications Act." This legislation is an important first step towards addressing the serious drug shortages facing patients and physicians today. The ASA has been a leader on addressing drug shortages. In November, ASA co-convened a "Drug Shortages Summit" to identify the core causes of drug shortages.
In the letter, ASA President Mark A. Warner M.D., says, "The drug shortages we have encountered during this past year have resulted in harm – even death -- to patients. Countless other near tragedies associated with these drug shortages have been averted by the skills that our anesthesiologists bring to bear every day. If enacted, your bill will help reduce the frequency and severity of these shortages, and we are very grateful."
Click here to read the entire letter.