On 3 June 2026, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) published a meeting summary of the Medicine Shortages Single Point of Contact (SPOC) Working Party meeting held on 15 April 2026. The summary outlines discussions and actions aimed at preventing and mitigating shortages of medicines in the EU, affecting patients, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical companies.
The meeting, chaired by EMA, brought together national competent authorities from EU member states, the European Commission, and other stakeholders. Key topics included the implementation of the revised EU pharmaceutical legislation, coordination of shortage notifications, and the use of the new IT platform for real-time data sharing. The working party reviewed recent shortage reports and discussed best practices for early detection and communication.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The working party emphasized the need for enhanced transparency and early warning systems, balancing the interests of public health protection with the operational burden on industry. Discussions highlighted the tension between mandatory reporting requirements and the flexibility needed for companies to manage supply chains. The group agreed on the importance of harmonizing criteria for critical medicines across member states to avoid fragmentation.
Impact on stakeholders - Patients: Improved early warning systems could reduce the impact of shortages on treatment continuity. - Pharmaceutical companies: New reporting obligations may increase administrative costs, but harmonized criteria could simplify compliance across the EU. - National authorities: Enhanced coordination and data sharing may improve response times but require investment in IT systems and staff training. - Healthcare providers: Better information on shortages could help in planning alternative treatments.
Expected institutional follow-up The working party will continue to refine the list of critical medicines and develop guidance for industry on shortage prevention plans. The next meeting is scheduled for October 2026, with a progress report to be presented to the EMA Management Board.
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