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How do you ensure purchases for the OR make sense?
We've set up a review committee comprised of a multidis-
ciplinary group of physicians who look at new technol-
ogy. They carefully consider a number of clinical and
economic factors. Does it really bring additional value?
How much does it cost and what will it take to add it? Is
there an adequate substitute product that suffices today? The
key element is an ongoing dialogue with physicians about link-
ing products to clinical effectiveness, outcomes and safety.
That's how we determine better value.
What improvements have you made to the process?
We've focused a lot on data. Our value-analysis program has
contracted with a third-party company, which adds comprehen-
siveness to the information we're able to review. When we're
considering a product, the company reviews all relevant articles
in peer-reviewed journals and summarizes the clinical evidence.
We've found that process to be incredibly efficient and helpful to
our own product specialists, who bring this clinical insight to our
physicians for review.
What mistakes do value-analysis committees continually make?
They don't drill down deep enough into product data. Take the
time and make the effort to really understand a device's
attributes and features. Be more critical when considering what you use
today, and what additional value the proposed product brings to the table.
hink Outside the Box to
Pump Up Your Purchasing Power
T
Thomas Lubotsky, BBA, MHA, FACHE
Value-based expert and supply management mastermind
