Inventory Management Prevents Medication Errors, Helps Navigate Drug Shortages | McKesson ideaShare

Commentary
Video

Thomas Sherrer, PharmD, co-owner of Poole's Pharmacy, describes implementing multiple tracking methods to stay ahead of drug shortages.

Effective inventory management in a health care setting requires proactive strategies to optimize stock, prevent medication errors, and ensure patient safety. A team-based approach can optimize inventory control, with multiple team members responsible for different aspects of tracking and managing pharmaceutical supplies. Pharmacists must be regularly checking expired and soon-to-expire medications, exploring opportunities to use or sell inventory before it becomes unusable, and implementing a perpetual inventory system. The approach involves not just tracking current stock levels but also anticipating future needs and potential shortages.

As for drug shortages, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical nature of inventory management in the face of supply chain issues and medication availability. In an interview at McKesson ideaShare, taking place in Nashville, Tennessee, from July 10 to 13, 2025, Thomas Sherrer, PharmD, co-owner of Poole's Pharmacy, describes implementing multiple tracking methods, such as monitoring back-order lists, making predictive orders during billing cycles, and checking multiple sources multiple times a day to stay ahead of potential shortages. The goal is to prevent disruptions in patient care while maintaining an efficient and cost-effective inventory system.

He states that effective inventory management is a collaborative effort requiring buy-in from the entire team. While it can be time-consuming and potentially detract from direct patient care, leveraging technology and creating a shared responsibility can help streamline the process. Ultimately, the focus is on maintaining patient safety, ensuring medication availability, and managing resources effectively in an increasingly complex health care environment.

"I think COVID brought us something we [had] never seen in some of the drugs that have been around a million years. [They] were going on shortage or out of stock," Sherrer said. "So some vendors have a back order list that will alert you."

Newsletter

Pharmacy practice is always changing. Stay ahead of the curve with the Drug Topics newsletter and get the latest drug information, industry trends, and patient care tips.

Recent Videos
Related Content
© 2025 MJH Life Sciences

All rights reserved.