Competition. Innovation. Communication. Trust. Integrity. Panelists and attendees at the 2013 Healthcare Supply Chain Expo identified and reiterated these core concepts as being critical not only to successful GPO/supplier relationships, but also as foundational elements of the solution to many of the challenges currently facing the healthcare supply chain.
Attendees at the 2013 Expo, which was held this week at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC, from October 21st to the 23rd, came together to network, to hear from supply chain thought-leaders and decision-makers about many of the pressing healthcare business and policy issues of the day, and to share ideas about how to improve the healthcare delivery system.
NBC Chief White House Correspondent Chuck Todd provided an overview and analysis of the political landscape in Washington and reminded attendees that, although it seems like politics are more polarized than ever, the U.S. has experienced similar eras of political gridlock throughout history. Tom Scully, former Administrator of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), walked attendees through some of the many changes coming to the U.S. healthcare system.
Former Congressman Jason Altmire (D-PA), currently the Senior Vice President of Public Policy for Florida Blue, used his unique experience as a Member of Congress and former hospital executive to talk about what was next for Affordable Care Act implementation.
Executives from leading healthcare group purchasing organizations including Amerinet, Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA), HPS, MedAssets, Novation, and Premier discussed the state of the GPO industry, how healthcare reform has affected their business, and the outlook for the future of the industry.
Journal of Healthcare Contracting Publisher John Pritchard moderated a panel discussion on Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) and what is on the horizon for health systems that have chosen to implement the innovative design model. Panelists discussed why systems have chosen to move to the ACO model, challenges they have encountered and how ACOs are working effectively with suppliers.
There were many other informative and educational panels – from how to enhance the GPO-supplier relationship to strategies to combat the drug shortage crisis, and everything in between – all of which gave attendees the opportunity to connect with supply chain influencers, GPOs, suppliers, healthcare providers and other speakers offering compelling and innovative solutions to supply chain challenges.
Thank you to all who attended the 2013 Expo. Cost pressures for American hospitals and healthcare providers have never been more acute, and the cost savings that GPOs deliver to the supply chain have never been more important. Because of your participation, the Expo remains one of the most renowned supply chain events of the year, and the outlook for the future of the supply chain remains bright. I look forward to seeing you all again at Expo next year.
