Hospitals, clinics, medical and dental offices, research laboratories, and medical schools all go through thousands of dollars of supplies each quarter. That total does not even include equipment, furniture, technology, and filing systems. Keeping overhead costs down to offer affordable medical care for the masses without insurance, and those with inadequate insurance coverage is a definite challenge.
Supply Chains
Medical supplies are often specialized products, such as leaded radiation protection glasses, X-ray aprons, and phlebotomy carts, so pricing tends to be higher than regular office or facility supplies. Leading international companies, such as Kemper Medical, work directly with top manufacturers to procure high-quality products at deep discounted pricing. The volume of products they sell and deliver on a global level is attractive to manufacturers, who can provide supplies at cost and still make a profit.
Distributors
Large companies also work with distributors around the world. Authorized distributors allow the sale and delivery of products worldwide without the company absorbing the costs of shipping from one central location. Shipping is faster and cheaper when a local distributor can help fill orders. Each company has different criteria for selecting a few distributors. The application to be a distributor for Kemper Medical is right on the company website.
Convenience
Being able to go to one company to order all needed supplies is convenient. It also saves a significant amount of money. A wide variety of choices means savings can be identified as new products are introduced, or new needs arise. It may be possible to save money on workstations and order better examination gowns for patient comfort. A small range of products does not offer the same benefits.
Shipping costs are free for large orders, there is only one website to go to, and inventory management is much easier. That combination will help an office or facility control supply costs and keep track of ordering patterns. That may shed light on where changes can be made. Instead of ordering small amounts of themed bandages for children, it may be cheaper to order larger amounts as long as there is a place to store them. The ability to lower patient costs without compromising patient care will be instrumental in the success of the clinic, hospital, or office.