Supply chain leaders at the nation's largest health systems are facing a range of complex and evolving challenges. Here are five key concerns that are top of mind in 2025:

1. Drug and Medical Supply Shortages

Persistent shortages of critical medications, surgical supplies, and medical devices remain a major concern. Factors driving this include:

• Global geopolitical instability (e.g., conflicts, trade restrictions, tariffs)
• Manufacturing disruptions and limited domestic production
• Increased demand for certain therapies (e.g., GLP-1s, oncology drugs)

2. Cost Pressures and Inflation

Rising costs are impacting procurement budgets and operational sustainability:

• Inflation in raw materials, labor, and transportation
• Pressure to cut costs while maintaining quality and safety
• Value-based care models demanding more cost-effective delivery

3. Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience

As health systems digitize supply chains, cybersecurity threats are intensifying:

• Ransomware attacks disrupting logistics and EHR-integrated supply platforms
• Increased risk due to interconnected vendors and third-party software
• Need for stronger governance over digital supply chain systems

4. Workforce and Talent Shortages

A shrinking and aging workforce is affecting supply chain operations:

• Difficulty attracting and retaining logistics professionals with healthcare experience
• Overreliance on aging legacy staff and lack of succession planning
• Burnout and attrition across clinical and non-clinical roles

5. Sustainability and ESG Demands

Health systems are under pressure to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals:

• Reducing carbon footprint in procurement, packaging, and logistics
• Increasing transparency in supplier ethics and sourcing
• Balancing sustainability with reliability and cost-effectiveness

The IDN Directory provides insights into the supply chains for the biggest health systems in the country to give manufacturer reps, distribution reps, and national accounts managers a quick, accurate view of what’s going on with their customers - right now. Contact us at demo@idndirectory.com to schedule a demo today.