TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW, 衛福部) on Wednesday (Jan. 15) assured the public of a stable infusion supply through the Lunar New Year, despite potential shortages in some hospitals. Lin Ching-yi (林靜儀), the deputy minister, emphasized that domestic production will reach 2 million bags this month, with a reserve of 216,000 bags available for adjustment.
The ministry has addressed the production gap left by Y F Chemical Corp. (永豐化學工業股份有限公司), which halted operations last May due to PIC/S GMP violations and license expiration. The MOHW highlighted that they have increased domestic production and initiated special imports to fill the gap. Shen Tsai-ying (沈采穎), president of the Grassroots Pharmacists Association (中華民國基層藥師協會), warned that some hospitals have less than a week's supply, risking shortages, especially during the Lunar New Year, given Y F Chemical's significant market share.
Lin emphasized on her personal Facebook page that January's domestic production matches the average supply from April 2023 to March 2024, highlighting the ministry's designation of infusions as essential medicines to ensure stable supply. The ministry continues to assist with raw material supply, employee recruitment, and contract issues with medical institutions.
The Food and Drug Administration (食藥署) and the National Health Insurance Administration (健保署) are monitoring hospital reports to manage abnormal demand, the MOHW added. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the ministry's efforts to stabilize the infusion supply will be crucial in maintaining healthcare services across Taiwan.
