The fallout from storm damage to a North Carolina factory that makes critical hospital supplies will be felt broadly and could linger, experts say. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * The fallout from storm damage to a North Carolina factory that makes critical hospital supplies will be felt broadly and could linger, experts say. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? The fallout from storm damage to a North Carolina factory that makes critical hospital supplies will be felt broadly and could linger, experts say.
Flooding triggered by Hurricane Helene hit a Baxter International plant in North Cove, North Carolina, that makes much of the country’s supply of sterile intravenous, or IV, fluids. It also makes fluids used by some patients on home kidney dialysis. Here’s a closer look at the impact.
What happened? Baxter had to close the factory, which it says is its largest manufacturing facility, employing more than 2,500 people. The company also started limiting how much supply customers can order, a restriction designed to prevent stockpiling and keep access equal. Dr.
Paul Biddinger of Mass General Brigham said this week that Baxter told the Massachusetts health system it will get about 40% of the supply it normally receives. Will this affect patient care? Yes. Hospitals may start making small changes for now to stretch supplies of IV fluids, which are used to keep patients hydrated and als.