The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), in collaboration with NHS England, has published a new policy paper outlining its strategic approach to managing medicines shortages and enhancing the resilience of the UK’s supply chains. Titled Managing a Robust and Resilient Supply of Medicines, the document was released on 11 August 2025 and updated on 15 August 2025 to reflect corrections in logistical data.
The paper acknowledges the growing global challenge of medicines shortages and sets out a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing their frequency and mitigating their impact on patients. Central to the strategy is a commitment to greater transparency, improved coordination across the supply chain, and proactive engagement with stakeholders including manufacturers, distributors, healthcare providers, and regulators.
Key measures include:
Strengthening early warning systems and data-sharing mechanisms to anticipate and respond to supply disruptions.
- Enhancing contingency planning and stockpiling for critical medicines.
- Supporting innovation and diversification in sourcing and manufacturing.
- Encouraging collaborative design of future supply chain reforms with industry and healthcare partners.
The publication is accompanied by a detailed data pack that underpins the analysis and recommendations presented. It is intended for a wide audience, including policymakers, supply chain professionals, and healthcare practitioners, and invites ongoing collaboration to ensure a stable and reliable supply of medicines for UK patients.
This initiative aligns closely with SALIENT’s mission to support evidence-based policymaking and regulatory resilience.
For more information, the full policy paper is available on the GOV.UK website