The Health Industry Distributors Association, a trade association representing medical supply distributors, is calling for a 'fast pass' system to be implemented to speed medical supplies and devices through the U.S. transportation system, the trade group said Dec. 1.
Members reported an average delay of 38 days has been added to medical supply transportation times.
"We as a country cannot allow cargo that is essential to treat patients and protect healthcare workers to wait in line during a public health emergency," association President & CEO Matthew J. Rowan said in a news release.
The organization outlined a series of actions it has taken to address the issue, including:
- An Aug. 24 joint letter with the Advanced Medical Technology Association and the International Safety Equipment Association urging the White House Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force to prioritize the transportation of medical supplies.
- An Oct. 29 letter to the U.S. Transportation Department seeking a critical cargo program to create a "fast pass" for medical supplies at U.S. ports to prioritize them for container access and sea freight space.
- Further collaboration with the Advanced Medical Technology Association and the International Safety Equipment Association to investigate morel solutions.