Filling the Distribution Gap

NGP. What are the main reasons for drug shortages and how often do they occur?

SK. Manufacturers have a hard time anticipating the needs and usages of the customers. These shortages happen on a daily basis, because hospitals use anywhere between forty to a hundred critical drugs in their every day needs. Consolidation among manufacturers also greatly impacts the industry. The shortages caused by the closing of warehouses or even one warehouse’s inadequacy to supply can affect the market for months. This causes hospitals to turn to different channels to fill their needs. That is where Med-Search steps in to fill the gaps in the distribution chain.

NGP. Which channels do you turn to to fill the distribution gaps?

SK. We turn to the most trusted channels, working only with authorized, licensed, and bonded vendors during the acquisition process to fill those gaps. Our thirty-five procurement specialists spend their entire day scouring the market for those critical drugs that the hospitals need so dearly. They search all fifty states using their large list of contacts that only years of experience can accumulate. These procurement specialists work to research and open new vendors on a daily basis to keep the channels open. They also use our sales reps as a source of information. Our customers are the largest source of information throughout the day. The procurement staff uses this information to their advantage.

NGP. How do you ensure that you comply with stringent pedigree standards?

SK. We have a team of compliance specialists that thoroughly check every pedigree and drug that comes through our doors. They go through vigorous training on all of the latest legislation and industry standards. Through annual classes, seminars, conferences, and testing, we make sure their expertise is constantly updated. It does help that we are based in Florida which has the strictest of the pedigree laws. Although we go above and beyond to ensure our customers receive only the safest drugs possible.

NGP. How do you keep up with the ever-changing pharmaceutical industry?

SK. It is very difficult to do because the industry is constantly changing. We deal with it on a state-by-state basis because of the different legislation and standards. Our business mentality is always open to new methods. Our staff is constantly trying new things and researching the latest information on the pharmaceuticals. We pride ourselves on being the forerunners of the industry. From being the first to have electronic pedigree to the first with an online ordering system, we are always looking for new ways to keep up with our clients and the changing times.

NGP. What sets you apart from your competitors?

SK. We have many years of experience. Our management alone has a combined 60 years. We pride ourselves on promoting from within and actively recruiting the top specialists in the industry. Our extensive training program requires all staff to go through a vigorous training program in each department of the business. This way our employees are as versatile as the industry. By choosing to operate in Florida, home to the nation’s most stringent pedigree standards, Med-Search stands behind its reputation of providing the highest levels of product and operational integrity. We pride ourselves on being known by thousands of hospitals across the United States as a knowledgeable, safe and dependable source for pharmaceuticals. When you call Med-Search, you’re not just getting the products you need, you’re also getting an account executive dedicated to keeping you informed when market shifts take place.

Med-Search’s preferred customer program is bringing over 40,000 drugs at the fingertips of doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, clinics and specialty medical centers. Imagine your facility having the ability to search for over 40,000 medications with your very own personal secure online account. No catalogs, no weekly faxes, and no wait time on the telephone. Med-Search’s online ordering network is available 24 hours, seven days a week.

About the contributor

Sam Karsch is the Chief Executive Offer of Med-Search Pharmaceutical Distributors in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is responsible for over 45 million dollars in annual sales, daily operation of the company and the research, development and implementation of new customer service initiatives such as the online pedigree program and preferred customer program. Karsch has been on the Emergency Pharmaceutical Supply Distribution side of the healthcare industry for almost a decade.