The timelines for domestic distribution of supply-disrupted essential medicines will likely be shortened to two months from four months starting this year.

The Korea Orphan & Essential Drug Center (KOEDC) announced on the 27th their plans to ensure a stable supply through monitoring the supply and demand of orphan drugs and essential medicines in Korea and overseas, according to its ‘2024 Business plan.’

If supply monitoring indicates medical needs and urgency of medicines, the center will shorten the timelines for domestic supply through a preliminary survey of overseas medicines for expedited supply.

Previously, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) was responsible f