The GAO has published a report on FDA’s Inspections that found a 36% decrease compared to fiscal year 2019 in the number of inspections, partly due to reduced investigator capacity. A piece of information that should surprise noone.

The report highlights a concerning trend in the FDA’s drug inspection workforce. From November 2021 to June 2024, the vacancy rate among investigators who inspect foreign and domestic manufacturers increased from 9% to 16%.

I think we’ve all seen the impact of this. It’s worth spending a little time reading the report.