Patient left ‘bewildered’ as the health system faces nationwide IV shortage

Royal Melbourne Hospital patient Elizabeth, has been left “bewildered” by the nationwide IV fluid shortage, which has impacted many patients across the country including herself.

Elizabeth suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and wasn’t aware of the shortage when going in for her monthly infusion.

“I find it a bit concerning to be quite frank,” she told Jacqui Felgate on 3AW Drive.

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“I’m starting to wonder what on earth was in it,” she said.

A Victorian government spokesperson has issued the following statement:

“The Department of Health is aware of the national shortages impacting supply of sterile fluids, and are working with the Therapeutic Goods Administration on a coordinated response as this is a national issue.

“While Victorian has not been impacted at this stage and there hasn’t been any disruption to patient care, the Department is actively supporting health services to conserve and monitor available stock, amid ongoing discussions with the main suppliers.”

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