In many cases, product identification and utilization are needed to assert whether the products can fulfill requirements of the clinical staff and patient. In both cases, the supply chain, specifically purchasing and the vendor, must be responsive to the needs of our customers. Nevertheless, purchasing strives to facilitate bringing together the right product, at the right time, at the right place and at the right price. The right glove for the right purpose at the right price can be a challenge for materials managers. Being a successful rural hospital requires appropriate, cost-effective products.
Gloves are a big expense.
I am very fortunate to have a cooperative and knowledgeable group of managers on whom I rely. We weigh the options, gathering information on needs from staff and patients and then try to make informed decisions. So, today the first problem is gloves. Tomorrow we'll deal with reusable versus disposable.