April 4, 2014

Executives Cite Changing Healthcare Landscape and Trends

Influencing Business at HIDA Conference

Alexandria, Va. – – More than 400 distributor, manufacturer, and provider executives recently met at the HIDA Educational Foundation’s Executive Conference to discuss a changing healthcare system’s current and future effects on supply chain relationships.

The conference, held in Austin, TX, provided executive-level insights into distribution trends and provider needs, plans, and expectations in the coming months. Key insights from providers emerged including:

Temple Health Focusing on Outpatient Support

Temple University Health System President & CEO Larry Kaiser explained how healthcare providers and distributors alike will need to focus more attention on outpatient settings. “The management of chronic diseases can no longer be limited to inpatient settings as a sustainable care model. The availability of medical care and resources must continue to be supported in alternate settings, such as the home,” said Kaiser.

Labs Taking More Active Role

Kenneth Blick of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center described how an evolving role for laboratory diagnostics providers can help improve and support patient care. “The role of the lab is moving away from the basement of organizations toward a more active, educative role. It’s up to diagnostics providers to get in front of and talk to doctors, explaining the benefits and nuances of their tests,” Blick noted.

Mayo Clinic Looks at Broader Role for Supply Chain Partners

Mayo Clinic Vice Chair of Supply Chain Management Bruce Mairose offered a broader view for future provider-distributor relationships. “What providers are really looking for from their supply chain partners are services and solutions; not sales. The needs of our patients always come first, but truly nothing is off the table if it has the potential to improve quality, outcomes, or reduce operating expenses,” Mairose commented.

Attendees enjoyed the conference’s focus and format, offering a diverse mix of education sessions and networking opportunities.

The next Executive Conference takes place in Bonita Springs, Fla., March 17 – 20, 2015.