Drug shortages for EMS: How McKesson can help

When essential medications are limited, EMS teams need strategies that help maintain continuity of patient care. Being prepared requires more than managing inventory — it takes strategic planning, reliable distribution and tools that support operational efficiency.

McKesson Medical-Surgical helps ambulatory EMS agencies stay prepared with a comprehensive Rx portfolio, reliable nationwide distribution and next-day delivery. This October, EMS leaders can connect with us at EMS World Expo, Oct. 20–24¹, to learn how our solutions can help support readiness and resilience.

The growing challenge of drug shortages in EMS

Drug shortages are influenced by a combination of supply chain disruptions², manufacturing delays and rising demand for specific medications³. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists tracks dozens of drugs currently in limited supply, many of which are essential for EMS protocols.

For EMS teams, drug shortages can make it more difficult to access medications that are essential for pain management, airway support, cardiac care and other emergency interventions. Even short-term limitations may require providers to adjust treatment plans or turn to approved alternative medications. These adjustments can add complexity to patient care, requiring quick decision-making in high-pressure situations.

The impact of shortages goes beyond clinical considerations. EMS agencies also face operational challenges, including coordinating inventory⁴ across multiple stations, adjusting staffing and schedules and tracking orders to ensure the right medications are available when and where they are needed. These added responsibilities may strain resources and make it harder for teams to focus on patient care.

With careful planning, EMS agencies can reduce these operational pressures. Proactive strategies, such as anticipating potential shortages, training staff on alternative protocols and using tools to track inventory, help agencies maintain service quality and respond confidently, even during periods of limited supply.

Preparing your EMS business for drug shortages

Planning ahead is key to minimizing the impact of drug shortages on EMS operations. Here’s how to keep your agency ready:

Build strong relationships with distribution collaborators

Working with a trusted ally provides insight into supply trends, helps anticipate potential shortages and supports product allocation before limited availability affects patient care. This approach allows EMS teams to focus on patient needs rather than reacting to supply constraints.

Flexibility within clinical protocols

Identifying approved substitute medications helps EMS personnel adapt quickly when preferred options are unavailable. Training staff on these alternatives can help them feel confident and prepared in the field. Scenario-based exercises give teams the chance to practice adjustments so they can respond efficiently in real-world situations.

Integrate shortage planning into operations

Embedding contingency plans into existing emergency response protocols strengthens resilience. Agencies that plan ahead are better able to help support continuity of care, manage workflow and reduce stress when supply disruptions occur.

Leverage technology for readiness

Digital tools that track inventory levels and provide insight into supply trends help EMS organizations manage orders proactively, anticipate needs and reduce administrative burden.

How McKesson supports EMS during drug shortages

McKesson provides solutions designed specifically for ambulatory EMS organizations facing drug shortages. Our representatives work directly with EMS providers to prioritize medication allocation and advise on operational planning, helping teams maintain readiness during supply fluctuations.

A distinguishing feature is McKesson’s comprehensive Rx portfolio. With access to a wide variety of medications, EMS teams can adapt quickly when primary options are unavailable. Next-day delivery enables rapid access to essential drugs, while our nationwide distribution network delivers stability and reliability.

Technology further streamlines operations. McKesson Inventory Manager offers greater visibility into stock levels, and the Controlled Substance Ordering System⁵ simplifies the process of ordering regulated medications. These tools make inventory management more efficient, reduce administrative demands and allow EMS personnel to concentrate on patient care.

Combined, these resources can help EMS organizations maintain continuity of care and operate effectively despite the challenges of limited medication availability.

Preparing for what’s next

Drug shortages are likely to remain a persistent challenge due to global manufacturing pressures and shifting demand patterns. Proactive planning allows EMS agencies to respond swiftly, sustain service quality and minimize operational interruptions.

McKesson equips EMS teams with a mix of solutions, including a comprehensive Rx portfolio, next-day delivery and readiness tools that can be adapted to each organization’s needs. Integrating these resources into daily workflows helps build resilience, strengthens response capabilities and allows EMS providers to focus on what matters most: delivering timely, effective care in emergencies.

Build resilience in your EMS operations

Drug shortages don’t have to compromise your organization’s preparedness. McKesson Medical-Surgical acts as a trusted ally, offering the products, tools and guidance EMS teams need to maintain continuity of patient care.

Visit us at EMS World Expo, Oct. 20–24, to discover how our solutions can help your organization stay ready.

Partner with McKesson Medical-Surgical to navigate drug shortages and help enhance your emergency response strategy. Learn more about our comprehensive Rx portfolio, next-day delivery and tailored solutions