Material Management Disaster Grant
Supply chain disruptions have a significant impact on patient care. That is why the Missouri Hospital Association has been working to address the critical issue of supply chain disruptions in healthcare by utilizing federal grants to support member hospitals in strengthening their supply chain resiliency with the Supply Chain Integration Program. One such recipient of this grant money is Scotland County Hospital and Clinics in Memphis. Travis Onken, Materials and Supplies Manager, at Scotland County Hospital said, “Through the Supply Chain Integration Program, the hospital received $26,000 worth of supplies, which included four pallets of personal protective equipment, such as gloves, sterile gowns, surgical gloves, and respiratory apparatuses. The hospital now has approximately a year and a half worth of these supplies.”
To qualify for the program, the hospital’s Materials Management Department staff, along with Robert Miller, the hospital’s Disaster Committee Chairman, participated in a four-part, virtual educational series aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of purchasing, materials management, and emergency preparedness. The series covered the current state of healthcare supply chain management, offering case studies on lessons learned from past disruptions like the Covid-19 pandemic. It also provided valuable strategies to help hospitals navigate future supply chain challenges.
By completing the educational requirements, Scotland County Hospital was able to secure the supplies needed to ensure patient care is not compromised during potential future disruptions, while also strengthening its overall emergency preparedness.
“This program is a real win for participating hospitals,” said Jon D. Doolittle, President and CEO of the Missouri Hospital Association. “By coupling the education programming with the funds to replenish supplies, participating hospitals gain access to best practices in supply chain management and the tools to support their work.”
Photo: Left-Right-
Emily Woods-Materials Management, Pattie Robinson-Materials Management, Robert Miller-Disaster Committee Chairman and Travis Onken, Materials & Supplies Manager.