Supply Chain Digital released a report about mitigating risk in healthcare supply chains.
Here are five key points from the article:
1. Create policies and procedures to track vendors in the facilities and where they are at all times to comply with regulatory agencies and accreditation standards. Keep track of these business associates and put safeguards in place to protect patient healthcare data. Vendors that aren't credentialed pose risk to the organization.
2. The supply chain team must onboard new vendors and credential them. These organization leaders need in-depth information on vendors and individual representatives on a timely basis. Combine supply chain and compliance functions for more efficient operations.
3. Businesses can require vendor reps to obtain the same infections disease vaccinations as the onsite staff. It's also important for reps to follow facility procedure with the proper attire and other requirements.
4. Credentialing vendors protects healthcare organizations from OIG and state sanction checks ensuring vendors are clear of government sanctions. The vendors also acknowledge policies like Stark Law disclosure, gifts and conflict of interest.
5. Catch vendors who are not compliant and bring them up to speed quickly to avoid risk in the future.