Citing disruptions to the supply chain, Intermountain Healthcare, a Utah-based system of 24 hospitals, is urging Utahns to donate needed walk-assist equipment, including crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and canes. Supply chain issues have caused global shortages of medical devices and equipment.
Experts point to the COVID-19 pandemic as the main cause of the disruption, which has been amplified by a shortage of materials—materials such as aluminum. The disruptions, along with the shortage, have caused an “unprecedented low level” of medical supplies at facilities across the world.
Dr. Joey Kamerath, a senior medical director for rehabilitation at Intermountain Healthcare, said the growing shortage and uncertainty of the supply chain will greatly impact patient care.
“We are indeed in desperate need of your crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and canes in order to provide our patients with the care that they need at Intermountain Healthcare,” he said. “We go through 1,800 pairs of crutches every single month, yet, unfortunately, our supply chain has remained completely dry of this equipment.
Read the full article at KSL.com.
