ASPEN survey of parenteral nutrition access issues: how the system fails the patients.
Like many medications, parenteral nutrition is prone to supply shortages. In this study, patients and caregivers were surveyed about supply and access issues related to home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Most respondents had experienced or were aware of a product shortage in the last two years, including ingredients, tubing, and infusion pumps. Shortages resulted in changes in symptoms or exacerbation of disease for two-thirds of respondents. In addition to supply issues, lack of qualified healthcare providers and poor insurance reimbursement were noted to hinder access.