FEMA To Leverage Commercial Distribution Channel

PRESS STATEMENT
April 3, 2020

Alexandria, VA – The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) voiced its support for FEMA’s Supply Chain Task Force and its decision to leverage the commercial distribution channel.

Task force leader Rear Adm. John Polowczyk has committed to using the existing distribution chain to expedite critical supplies to healthcare providers. “I'm looking to break down barriers ... to help them feed product where it needs to go," said Polowczyk.

He noted that the nation’s medical supply chain includes hundreds of distribution centers."I'm not going to re-create that,” he said.

“Since the onset of COVID-19-driven constraints in PPE supplies, our members have appreciated the government’s support and utilization of the existing supply chain,” HIDA President and CEO Matthew J. Rowan said in a March 28 letter to FEMA Administrator Peter T. Gaynor.

“We look forward to working closely with FEMA to expedite product to the hospitals, nursing homes, and other locations where it is needed most,” added Rowan.

About HIDA

The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) represents the country’s medical product distributors – the nation’s essential link between manufacturers and patient caregivers. HIDA members offer critical services increasing the efficiency of U.S. healthcare providers, including hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, home care, and physician practices. For more information, visit HIDA.org.