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03_Singh_Fragile Supply Chain

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The article "Navigating a Fragile Healthcare Supply Chain" discusses the challenges and strategies for managing inventory in the healthcare industry, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The author highlights the disruptions in the supply chain and the need for healthcare organizations to reevaluate their inventory management practices. <br /><br />The article explains the concept of just-in-time (JIT) inventory management, which is a strategy used to increase efficiency and reduce waste by receiving goods only as they are needed for production. However, the pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of relying solely on global shipping and limited inventory. The author suggests that companies need to forge new relationships with onshore and near-shore suppliers and reevaluate their inventory management strategies.<br /><br />The article also emphasizes the importance of group purchasing organizations (GPOs) in helping healthcare providers realize savings and efficiencies by negotiating discounts with manufacturers and other vendors. It suggests that healthcare organizations should consider participating in self-distribution programs and collaborating with other hospitals to mitigate shortages and manage costs.<br /><br />The author provides several recommendations for a proactive approach to healthcare supply chain management. These include diversifying suppliers, involving clinicians in the decision-making process, using technology to track supply chains, leveraging data for better decision-making, and balancing inventory costs with emergency preparedness.<br /><br />Overall, the article highlights the need for healthcare organizations to reassess their inventory management practices and adopt strategies that enhance resilience and preparedness in the face of supply chain disruptions.

Keywords

healthcare supply chain

inventory management

COVID-19 pandemic

just-in-time

global shipping

group purchasing organizations

self-distribution programs

clinician involvement

technology in supply chain

emergency preparedness