Southern Wisconsin Times

Janesville, WI (October 18, 2024) - Congressman Bryan Steil has taken a lead role in addressing the IV fluid shortage affecting hospitals across the United States. Steil, representing Wisconsin's first district, along with other members of the Wisconsin delegation, has reached out to the Biden-Harris administration for immediate intervention.

The shortage stems from damage inflicted by Hurricane Helene on Baxter International’s North Cove facility near Asheville, North Carolina. This site is crucial as it manufactures a significant portion of the nation's IV fluids and dialysis solutions. "According to the company, their site was 'significantly impacted by the rain and storm surge' from Hurricane Helene and is temporarily closed," stated the letter from Steil and his colleagues.

Baxter International supplies approximately 60% of IV fluids used in U.S. hospitals. The disruption has already led Wisconsin hospitals to postpone or cancel elective procedures due to dwindling supplies.

The letter also highlights concerns over further disruptions from Hurricane Milton and urges federal action to mitigate these impacts on healthcare services: "With more disruptions anticipated from Hurricane Milton, we ask your administration to take all available action to minimize the impact of this shortage on patient care and increase the supply of IV solutions."

A full copy of the letter can be accessed online.