As you look for new ways to improve efficiencies in your Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC), take a step back to examine your supply chain.
Review your logistical processes, communication with partners, current products, and determine if you have an opportunity to transform your facility’s supply chain with clinical integration. In a recent podcast sponsored by Cardinal Health and hosted by Becker’s ASC, Penny Williams, Senior Consultant of Clinical Operations at Cardinal Health, dives into what it means to have a clinically integrated supply chain and how to successfully implement one in your facility.
Williams shared that the Association of Healthcare Resources & Materials Management (AHRMM) explains a clinically integrated supply chain as “An interdisciplinary approach to deliver patient care with the highest value (high quality, best outcomes, and minimal waste at the lowest cost of care) that is achieved through assimilation and coordination of clinical and supply chain knowledge, data, and leadership toward care across the continuum that is safe, timely, evidence based, efficient, equitable and patient focused.” Williams also broke it down in simpler terms as “coordination and collaboration between caregivers, clinicians, leadership, and supply chain,” which allows these leaders to make more informed decisions for their facility.
Eliminating silos within a facility is one major benefit as it allows for the exchange of information between groups that often lack a meaningful connection. Implementing clinical integration provides an ASC with many other advantages beyond the shift of internal communication. Williams shared that “This integration and collaboration helps to determine the best products that deliver the best care at the best price. This contributes to increased patient satisfaction and efficiency while at the same time it helps to lower costs.” Having clinical input on product choice leads to quality outcomes and can also reduce waste through product standardization. Standardization also prevents errors due to clinician familiarity. “I believe that if we all use similar products in the same way, every day, every time we use it, we’re delivering the same standard of care to all of our patients” stated Williams.
To have a successful implementation and long-term management of a clinically integrated supply chain, it’s imperative to educate your facility’s clinicians and maintain open communication with distribution partners. Share the cost of products with clinicians to align on clinically acceptable but cost-effective options. When working with any distribution partners, Williams shared, “It’s just so important to have frequent and open lines of communication with them.” Outline your expectations for timely communication to allow for quick responses as supply challenges arise.
Listen to the full podcast here for more insight on how implementing a clinically integrated supply chain can transform your facility and request a no-cost supply chain consultation to get started.