
In addition, 43% of these leaders say they lost nurses due to supply challenges or shortages. Just over three-quarters (76%) say supply chain analytics spur higher care quality, and 61% say analytics impact staff satisfaction and retention. A recent survey of hospital supply chain leaders found that 94% believe supply chain analytics reduce supply costs. Analytics can also help with hospital-wide standardization, especially for areas like surgical PPI, which account for 40% to 60% of a hospital’s total supply cost (excluding medications).

In some hospitals and health systems, staff spend 58% of their workday on indirect activity, such as searching for supplies needed for patient care activities. Just one example: demand forecasting, especially helpful for pick preparations, is nearly impossible at many organizations. There are so many inefficiencies in the hospital supply chain.


Antiquated processes that create inefficiencies, unnecessary expenses, and staff dissatisfaction are contributing to financial challenges that have only been exacerbated during the pandemic. When it comes to supply chain management, the healthcare industry comes in last place and it’s paying the price.
