Wickenburg Community Hospital Pharmacy (WCH Pharmacy) recognizes that drug shortages are increasing. There is a long and growing list of proprietary medicines that have been discontinued by the pharmaceutical industry. Even potentially life-saving medications like potassium chloride (electrolyte) and sodium bicarbonate (antacid) appear on the “unavailable” list. As a result, patients may no longer have access to important maintenance medications required to maintain their health and quality of life.
WCH Pharmacy joined a large group of rural Critical Access Hospitals across the country to ensure minimal impact from medication shortages. One of the advantages of this coalition is WCH Pharmacy still has access to most medications during a drug shortage, as well as advanced notice of potential supply chain issues to find alternate sources. WCH Pharmacy utilizes smaller vendors independently of our hospital group allowing for access to medications that may not be able available locally. During a drug shortage, Pharmacy staff search regularly and communicate daily with providers to identify alternatives to patients potentially affected by a drug shortage.
When commercially manufactured medications become temporarily unavailable or are discontinued, WCH Pharmacy can solve patient medication challenges by using the highest available grade of ingredients to formulate needed medications in the optimal strength and dosage for each patient. WCH pharmacists consider the physical and chemical properties of active and inactive ingredients to prepare customized medications with the proper consistency, stability, texture, color, and taste optimizing the therapeutic potential of each preparation. At WCH Pharmacy, our mission is to ensure our practices put the patient, their family, and this community first. Speak to a pharmacist if you are having trouble obtaining a necessary medication by calling 928-684-4380.