Better oversight of strategic stockpile needed before next health emergency: GAO

The Department of Health and Human Services’ current management of the strategic national medical supply stockpile is too low and needs filling to ensure the country is prepared for future public health emergencies, according to a report from the Government Accountability Office, reports Healthcare Dive. The GAO analysis ultimately found that current stockpiles hold most of the recommended medical supplies, but often not in the recommended quantities. The national stockpile is an arsenal of drugs and other medical supplies the federal government maintains in the event of a public health crisis or other emergencies.