This Special Edition newsletter is in response to an increasing interest in what the healthcare supply chain industry is now commonly referring to as "self distribution".  This article is one of a three part series that focuses on the first of three key elements that are associated with a successful self-distribution supply chain model.  NML is providing these articles now to respond to providers' requests for budgeting information associated with 2010 planning.

 

This first element, "Defining Self Distribution" will help you understand what the model is and what it is designed to produce.  It will provide insight into the overall concept and value proposition.  The series of articles are written from a healthcare supply chain perspective, grounded in a foundation of over 75 years of industry observations and hands on experience.   National Medical Logistics is an industry neutral company that provides subject matter expertise and implementation services for various healthcare supply chain service enhancement and cost containment initiatives such as self-distribution models. 

 

Each newsletter (below) has its own topical focus, beginning here with "Defining Self Distribution", and will be elaborated on in its own Special Edition newsletter.  As always, all newsletters are accessible at www.natmedlog.com/letters.aspx.

1.       Defining Self Distribution
2.       Determining Self Distribution Opportunities
3.       Pursuing Self Distribution for Success

 

It is important to accurately define the term "self distribution" so that industry leaders can easily understand the various alternative models that are available - their potential value proposition - and which models are achievable based on the hospital's particular circumstances.  All too often, the term is used by supply chain executives to describe a specific component of a model that they observed or read about.  They may not have a clear understanding of what it took to implement that specific model, why it was important, or how it impacts the entire organization. 

 

This 'assumed' and usually incorrect understanding often oversimplifies the transformational effort because much of the model and its value proposition gets lost in the translation.  Also, this model is not for every provider.  It is our intention to define this concept, which can then result in a better educated supply chain community.  Beginning with this series of articles and upcoming educational webinars, NML will arm healthcare providers with the information needed to help improve our industry - challenging and changing the status-quo one-educated step at a time.  To read more, click here.