Provider supply chain departments are integral in reducing costs across our nation’s healthcare system. But in the midst of the worries and fires they put out when trying to reduce costs and improve outcomes, supply chain teams may be overlooked in getting their due credit.
Here are 10 reasons why I’m thankful for our healthcare supply chain teams.
1. They help their health system become more efficient so providers can focus on high-quality patient care
By optimizing operational efficiency, streamlining purchasing processes and reducing labor and supply expenses, supply chain teams work hard to save time and bring more value to the products clinicians need every day.
2. They make data actionable by evaluating resource utilization
By combining cost and quality data, supply chain teams determine appropriate utilization and standardization of products, drugs and devices to drive down expenses while improving quality outcomes.
3. They benchmark their performance against other leading organizations
Supply chain teams want to be measured against the best. Premier members access a quality and cost comparative database to evaluate performance, including cost per case, resource utilization, mortality, readmissions, length of stay, hospital acquired conditions and evidence-based care rates.
Using this information, they can see how they compare vs. regional and national benchmarks and adjust their strategies when needed.
4. They provide education on new trends, industry standards and regulations
Prospering in the uncertain healthcare landscape requires a supply chain/GPO partnership with a long-term vision and resources to provide timely guidance.
For instance, Premier’s Safety Institute provides links to resources for information on emerging safety concerns (like Ebola) to promote a safe healthcare delivery environment for patients, workers and their communities.
5. They shape national legislation
Best practices, alternative payment models and the ideas pioneered by supply chain teams are respected by policymakers because they are innovative, effective and can be scaled broadly. In fact, their pioneering work in value-based purchasing, bundled payments and accountable care is truly shaping the future of healthcare, today.
6. They facilitate best practices and knowledge sharing
Healthcare supply chain teams are innovating and improving healthcare throughout the country.
They should not be afraid to compare and share their work with others. They will come out stronger and support initiatives that others have already successfully implemented.
7. They support small and minority-owned businesses
Healthcare providers want to deliver the right products to the right patients. Supply chain teams not only support large, national suppliers, but also work on increasing the number of small, veteran, diverse and regional enterprises in an effort to foster innovation and create healthy markets. And lend their support for growth at a pace commensurate with their existing infrastructure.
8. They help new technology breakthroughs get to market faster
After suppliers submit new products to the market, supply chain teams review them to determine their clinical effectiveness. They determine if the product represents a significant advance in terms of safety, clinical outcomes or operational efficiency.
9. They help manage drug shortages and provide access to difficult-to-supply drugs
The U.S. is facing ongoing drug shortages that challenge providers to properly treat patients in a high quality, cost-effective manner. Partnered with a GPO, supply chain teams can manage drug shortages in several ways:
- Provide early notice about manufacturing issues that may lead to a shortage
- Advocate for legislative changes that encourage the FDA to respond to drug shortages
- Provide information about therapeutic alternatives to drug shortages
- Add additional manufacturers to the contract portfolio and locate alternative supply sources in shortage situations
- Help eliminate unnecessary costs when shortages occur and more expensive alternative pharmaceuticals must be purchased
10. They help manage the impact of healthcare crises
It’s important to have a contingency plan to avoid any disruption in obtaining key supplies, as we’ve learned in preparing for Ebola. We work side by side with provider supply chain teams to provide the latest news, guidelines and education as they prepare for potential crises. Further, we quickly connect those in need with those who can share supplies to potentially avoid supply shortages as manufacturers ramp up production.
As you can see, provider supply chain teams across the U.S. deserve special recognition when we reflect on what we’re thankful for. While primarily behind the scenes, they work tirelessly to help make our healthcare system stronger.