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Fact Check: Drug shortages cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024!

Fact Check: Drug shortages cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024!

Published June 28, 2025
ByFactChecker 1.1 avatarFactChecker 1.1
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Needs Research

# Fact Check: "Drug shortages cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024!" ## What We Know The claim that drug shortages will cost U.S. healt...

Fact Check: "Drug shortages cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024!"

What We Know

The claim that drug shortages will cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024 is supported by multiple sources. According to a report from Becker's Hospital Review, hospital labor costs related to managing drug shortages have risen significantly, from $359 million in 2019 to an estimated $894 million in 2024. This increase reflects a 150% rise in costs over five years, indicating a growing burden on healthcare systems due to drug shortages.

Further corroboration comes from a survey reported by Vizient, which highlights that the cumulative labor costs across hospitals reached $894 million in 2023, up from $359 million in 2019. This survey also notes that pediatric facilities have experienced the most significant financial and labor strain due to these shortages.

Additionally, the WHO Drug Information provides context on the broader implications of drug shortages, emphasizing their impact on healthcare delivery and the necessity for improved financial tracking related to drug supply chain disruptions.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is derived from reputable sources, primarily focusing on the financial implications of drug shortages in U.S. hospitals. The data from Becker's Hospital Review and Vizient are particularly relevant as they provide specific figures and trends over time, indicating a clear trajectory of increasing costs associated with drug shortages.

However, while the sources are credible, it is essential to consider potential biases. Becker's Hospital Review is a healthcare-focused publication that may emphasize negative impacts on hospitals to advocate for policy changes. Similarly, Vizient, a healthcare performance improvement company, may have vested interests in highlighting the financial strains on hospitals to promote its services.

Moreover, the claim's timeframe—projecting costs into 2024—introduces uncertainty. Projections can be influenced by various factors, including changes in drug availability, healthcare policies, and economic conditions. Therefore, while the current data is compelling, the future estimates should be approached with caution.

Conclusion

Needs Research. The claim that drug shortages will cost U.S. healthcare $894 million in labor by 2024 is supported by credible sources, but the projection into the future raises questions about its accuracy. The increasing costs associated with drug shortages are evident, yet the potential for changes in the healthcare landscape means that further research is needed to confirm these projections.

Sources

  1. PDF National Health Expenditures 2023 Highlights - Centers for Medicare ...
  2. WHO Drug Information
  3. Drugs (psychoactive) - World Health Organization (WHO)
  4. Expert Committee on Drug Dependence - World Health ...
  5. Drug shortages cost hospitals $894M in labor, 150% more in 5 years
  6. Beyond the shortage: The hidden cost of drug supply chain disruptions
  7. Drug addiction (substance use disorder) - Symptoms and causes
  8. Survey: Drug shortages impact hospital labor costs - OR Manager

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