US Cancer Centers Still Struggling with Chemotherapy Shortages, NCCN’s Recent Survey Reveals

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has released an update on the persisting chemotherapy shortages within US cancer centers. While there has been a slight improvement in the availability of carboplatin and cisplatin, other vital anticancer medications continue to remain scarce. The most recent survey, conducted September 6-20, 2023, reveals that 72% of centers are grappling with a shortage of carboplatin, while 59% are facing challenges with obtaining cisplatin. Moreover, 86% of the surveyed centers reported a shortage of at least one type of anticancer drug.

NCCN CEO Robert W. Carlson, MD, emphasized the critical need for enduring solutions to ensure equitable access to optimal cancer treatment. He remarked, “Everyone with cancer should have access to the best possible treatment according to the latest evidence and expert consensus guidelines.” Highlighting the severity of the situation, Alyssa Schatz, senior director of policy and advocacy for NCCN, stressed the need for urgent action, asserting that “comprehensive solutions take time, but the ongoing crisis demands immediate responses.”

The survey, involving 29 of NCCN’s 33 member institutions, uncovered additional statistics beyond the shortages of carboplatin and cisplatin. Notably, 66% of centers reported a scarcity of methotrexate, 55% struggled with obtaining 5-fluorouracil, 45% faced challenges with acquiring fludarabine, and 41% experienced shortages of hydrocortisone. These findings underline the widespread impact of the drug shortage crisis and the urgent need for swift and effective measures to address the ongoing challenges.

Dr Carlson also highlighted the collaborative efforts of NCCN with various stakeholders, including the White House, National Cancer Institute, and Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, to advocate for short- and long-term solutions. He stated, “We won’t rest until we know we can prevent anticancer drug shortages from happening in the future.”

The survey results shed light on the strategies implemented by these cancer centers to ensure continued patient care despite the shortages. Many centers reported using inventory management techniques and allocation frameworks to make the most of the limited drug supply. Although the survey results did not indicate any significant treatment delays or denials from payers due to modified treatment plans, the widespread drug shortage issue continues to pose a significant threat to cancer care.

NCCN’s policy calls for comprehensive action from the federal government, pharmaceutical industry, providers, and payers to guarantee quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care. The organization has stressed the need for continued investments in generic drugs and the improvement of data infrastructure to prevent future shortages.

This persistent crisis highlights the systemic challenges within the health care industry that have accumulated over decades, necessitating immediate action and collaborative solutions. As Dr Carlson aptly summarized, “We need enduring solutions to safeguard people with cancer and address any disparities in care.” 

For a detailed analysis and an overview of the survey’s findings, visit NCCN’s website at NCCN.org/policy.