As supply constraints remain a key challenge in the healthcare industry, it becomes increasingly difficult to prepare for the unknown. Each day brings uncertainty with which products will be available, requiring health systems to rethink their demand planning process.
Consider the following three tips to adjust your demand plan in the new year:
- Leverage data from a Logical Unit of Measure (LUM) program
“Logical unit of measure” (LUM) programs, such as ValueLink, provide an innovative perspective to more typical “low unit of measure” or “just it time” distribution models, since they leverage data and insights to determine the accurate unit of measure, based on actual usage. This can help you better demand plan.
- Increase visibility into the supply chain
Providers must have confidence not only in what products and alternatives are available to them, but also in the reliability of their long-term supply health and clinical preparedness. Ask your distribution and other supply chain partners what capabilities they offer to provide you more visibility.
- Work with your distributor to alleviate uncertainty in operational supply chain needs
Real-time collaboration between distributors and health systems can help alleviate stress on supply chains. If a health system is experiencing a significant increase in operational demand, it is important to know the specific products, quantities, and duration of time needed for increased supply. This allows the distributor to help assess supply, improve visibility into product availability, and determine the best path forward.
For more supply chain tips and best practices, visit cardinalhealth.com/supplychaincenter.