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In a recent article for Plastics Today titled, “Medical Musings: Hospital purchasing kicks into high gear”, Doug Smock comments on the advanced procurement strategies currently being utilized in the healthcare supply chain—-particularly by GPOs—-ushering in a new era of competitive pricing for healthcare products including medical devices.
The article mentions a recent survey by L.E.K. Consulting, in which 62% of hospital administrators said they will increase their use of GPOs in 2012, up from 52% last year, and describes the expanding relationship between GPOs and suppliers to serve their members and customers:
“Aggregation of business into single contracts attracts major suppliers, who offer price discounts, inventory management, even special technology collaboration. Reduction of the supply base and focus on strategic suppliers is a key component of advanced procurement strategy.”
The article also discusses the increased role of standards in the supply chain, and what HSCA is doing to assist in the implementation of GLNs and GTINs.