August 2020

When supply chain disruptions emerge, health systems and supply chain leaders have become adept at managing by identifying alternative products, expanding on-hand inventory and adopting conservation strategies. However with COVID-19, the need to plan for future surges requires tools that enable more accurate projections for essential medications and other critical supplies.

A few months ago, COVID-19 brought into sharp focus the fragility of the medical supply chain. From a lack of visibility into inventory levels to drug and supply shortages caused by unprecedented demand spikes that disrupted the global supply chain, the pandemic has put a spotlight on common challenges deeply rooted within the health care supply chain.

Research conducted by Sg2 highlights lessons learned and innovative approaches to supply chain resilience from member hospitals. Sg2’s report also lays out short- and long-term strategies for heightening supply chain’s resiliency to protect against future interruptions and uncertainty. 

COVID-19 has increased uncertain demand patterns at the hospital level for PPE. Improving supply chain visibility and communication can help mitigate inventory fluctuations.