An ethical framework for responding to drug shortages in pediatric oncology.
The frequency of drug shortages has increased considerably over the last decade. Important ethical issues arise whenever the supply of an effective drug is insufficient to meet demand. Using the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice, institutions can guide prioritization of drug distribution before a shortage occurs to avoid unfair and unethical distribution of resources. This analysis will give a historical context for drug shortages, identify, and explore the central ethical concerns raised by drug shortages, and propose an ethical framework for addressing them in the context of pediatric oncology.
University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.
Jill C
JC
Beck
Laurie D
LD
Smith
Bruce G
BG
Gordon
Jeremy R
JR
Garrett
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000941:ethics*; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000941:ethics*; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents
chemotherapy; ethics; pediatric hematology/oncology; psychosocial; support care