Operational efficiency is paramount to the success and sustainability of ambulatory surgery centers. However, uncertainty and rising costs in the supply chain continue to threaten profitability. Through technology, process optimization, and strategic partnerships, ASCs can simplify the procurement process, streamline workflows, and reduce operational costs.
This article outlines 3 key strategies to streamline purchasing and reduce costs:
- Enhance automation and technology integration
- Prioritize product standardization
- Leverage group purchasing organizations (GPOs) and other supply chain partners
1. Enhance automation and technology integration
As ASC volumes grow, it’s essential to accurately understand current and projected inventory needs to improve supply chain workflow and resilience. Digital and technological advances are key drivers of supply chain simplification. E-procurement and inventory management systems track real-time purchasing and spending trends to optimize costs and ensure accurate and timely stock management. It’s crucial to align operational goals with IT adoption to maximize return on investment and achieve long-term success. ASCs should analyze their current supply chain technologies, including the use of predictive analytics, to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
2. Prioritize product standardization
Product standardization enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves patient outcomes. It also leads to greater discounts and inventory control by eliminating waste and supply shortages. An essential first step is to thoroughly review all medical supplies, instruments, and equipment used in procedures to identify duplicate or similar products that can be consolidated. Success is dependent upon clinician buy-in to ensure clinical efficacy and end-user acceptance. Standardized product lists should align with clinical guidelines and regulatory requirements. It’s important to track usage patterns and compliance and regularly review and update the product list to address new products and cost-saving opportunities.
3. Leverage group purchasing organizations (GPOs) and other supply chain partners
GPOs offer a broad range of supplies and better contract pricing, reducing supply costs and enhancing efficiency. ASCs not currently part of a GPO should explore how membership can improve business operations. For ASCs that are GPO members, ensuring the organization is taking full advantage of the GPO partnership is essential. This includes reviewing all available contracts to leverage the full scope of products and services available and reviewing GPO pricing to ensure they remain competitive. Establishing preferred vendors and consolidating suppliers further reduces administrative complexity and enables better pricing and contract terms.
Additionally, GPOs often offer value-added services, including regulatory and compliance support, staff training, and educational resources. By maximizing these services, ASCs can free up staffing resources to focus on other pressing needs. Engaging the right supply partners extends beyond clinical goods and services. It’s equally important to seek a reliable partner for office and cleaning maintenance supplies, and staff breakroom and waiting room products. A good supply partner will provide cost-effective, timely services, helping to streamline workflows and boost the bottom line.
Through supply chain simplification, ASCs can maintain efficiency, reduce costs, and improve patient care. Product standardization, automation and data analytics, and fostering supplier collaboration, create a more agile and resilient supply chain and to help ASCs achieve long-term success.
Staples Business Advantage is a leading healthcare purchasing partner, proudly serving 8 of the top 10 healthcare systems nationwide. We have partnerships with the top GPOs providing our customers with substantial cost savings and streamlined procurement across EVS, furniture, breakroom supplies, print, marketing, and more. Our robust supply chain ensures dependable access to essential products, with fast, free delivery covering over 98% of the U.S.
