Best Practices for Procuring Personal Protective Equipment for Ebola Response

On October 20, 2014, CDC issued new guidance for personal protective equipment (PPE). The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has been working closely with PPE manufacturers and distributors to maintain visibility on PPE availability.

Since the issuance of the CDC guidance, demand for PPE has increased. Across the United States, availability for these products varies by type and model, requested quantity, manufacturer, distributor, and geographic region.

• CDC guidance recommends use of either a PAPR or an N95 respirator, both of which provide a high level of protection that allows healthcare workers to safely manage patients with Ebola.  Therefore, if one option is not available, the other could be used. Visit the NIOSH Respirator Trusted Source site to identify respirators meeting the requirements specified in the guidance.

• CDC recommends use of either a fluid-resistant or impermeable coverall or a fluid-resistant or impermeable gown. If a coverall is not immediately available, a single-use, fluid-resistant or impermeable gown that extends to at least mid-calf can be worn in combination with single-use, fluid-resistant or impermeable boot covers that extend to at least mid-calf.

HHS is working with distributors and manufacturers to understand various ways customers may be able to find supplies needed for training and use in evaluation and/or treatment of patients with suspected or confirmed cases of Ebola. The following options may assist hospitals in obtaining PPE.

• Work within healthcare coalitions, local hospitals, and state and local health departments to create plans for sharing available PPE in the event of a suspected or confirmed case of Ebola. A list of State Public Health Department phone numbers is available.
• Work with your distributor, group purchasing organization (GPO), or healthcare coalition to discuss brands, timelines, and contract terms to determine if alternative products are in stock to support your request.
• Contact product manufacturers to note your interest in purchasing additional product. Manufacturers may not increase production of items unless they are sure of future orders. Reporting your interest to them may assist in their decision-making. There may still be a 6-10 week timeline before product is delivered due to production and shipment times.
• Consider non-traditional supply partners such as industrial distributors and retailers.
• While manufacturers report they are increasing production of PPE products, and distributors are identifying ways to provide requested quantities and meet delivery timelines, some products may be available but in lower quantities than requested or with a longer delivery time than requested.
• If your facility suspects or identifies a case of Ebola, contact your state health department to facilitate additional assistance.