Over 90 Total Lots Up For Auction at One Location - WA 04/08

How to choose the right partner for SUD reprocessing

August 27, 2012
From the August 2012 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine

Purchasing, storing and using reprocessed devices need not be a burden on your staff or your facility, and can be as easy as using devices from original equipment manufacturers. Some reprocessors use device packaging similar to that of the original manufacturer, making for easier integration into the hospital and onto shelves. Also, ask if the reprocessed devices will come back to you in the same case quantities as the OM devices. Finally, look for a partner that will help you implement cutting edge supply chain systems, such as GHX, to fit into your established supply, storage and usage patterns.

How does your collections system work?

The most successful reprocessing programs are easy to incorporate into your existing operations. Some reprocessors require additional handling of devices by hospital staff, which can cause the program to drift and the positive results to decline. A reprocessor that provides containers designed to collect all SUDs regardless of whether they can be reprocessed requires minimal extra effort from hospital staff. The reprocessor can handle the sorting on their end, and recycle or discard devices that cannot be reprocessed.

What types of support services do you provide?

Look for a partner that provides a full-time, dedicated representative to see that your program grows and achieves optimal savings. Your representative is a constant resource for program improvement opportunities and continuous staff education. He or she is also there to make sure you are ordering products that match your usage pattern, so you realize your full savings potential. Having to wait for your specific devices to be reprocessed means you might experience shortages or may have to purchase devices that don’t help you meet your reprocessing goals.

How are you committed to helping us meet our goals?

Look for a reprocessing partner that offers regular check-ins on your program to monitor its progress and success. Your reprocessor should help you build tracking and reporting systems for the staff to follow the program’s progress and should provide a best-practice approach for establishing and maintaining facility-wide program support. If more savings can be realized, your reprocessing partner should work with you to adjust your program within your facility or expand the program to other parts of the hospital. From implementation, to education, to business planning and program expansion, your reprocessing partner should be there to offer support to help meet your goals.

You Must Be Logged In To Post A Comment