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S U P P L Y C H A I N
M A N A G E M E N T
Patent protections for brand-name drugs are constantly expiring, allowing for new generics, so check periodically for new generic versions of drugs you frequently use. In 2012, more than 40 brand-name
drugs lost their patent protection. The pace is slowing in 2013, but
there are still many opportunities.
Example of savings: A surgery center saved 37% ($3,500 per year) by
purchasing their medical distributor's private-label glutaraldehyde
instead of the name brand.
3. Using too many vendors
Failure to consolidate vendors is a common example of a bad leak in ASC spending. Contracting with a lot of vendors means you have high administrative costs, extra shipping costs and overall hassle. In addition, many vendors are willing to reduce prices in exchange for an exclusive contract. Most of your purchases can go through a few key vendors. Only a few supply items have to be purchased directly from the manufacturer. You can even get most — if not all — of your office and janitorial supplies from your primary
