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Recommended Citation
Lomas A, Shealy L, Rushing M, Roberts E, Collins M. Streamlining Medical Supply Inventory: A Technological Approach to Cost Reduction. Technological Innovations in Care Redesign and Delivery poster presented at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Presentation Notes
Technological Innovations in Care Redesign and Delivery poster presented at Transforming Practice: The Intersection of Technology and Nursing Excellence; Advocate Health Nursing Research and Professional Development Conference 2025; November 12, 2025; Virtual.
Abstract
Introduction and Context:
Inventory management of lab and medical supplies is crucial for cost control and operational efficiency, especially with high-cost supplies like COVID and flu tests. Historically, Atrium Health Urgent Cares faced inefficiencies in purchasing oversight, leading to budget overruns and misalignment between supply and demand. These challenges were addressed by using technology to streamline processes, align with healthcare demands, and improve operational efficiency.
Implementation Strategy:
Streamlining inventory management, a QR code system was implemented for teammates to input COVID and flu kit counts weekly. The Microsoft Form records location and unopened test kit inventory. The data is exported into a spreadsheet, while Epic SlicerDicer tracks tests ordered and positivity rates. This snapshot helps identify testing trends and trigger standing orders. Nursing staff were essential to ensure accurate inventory counts and smooth system integration.
Outcomes and Impact:
Analyzing inventory trends alongside testing demands, we established accurate par levels, reduced overstock and shortages, and managed expenses. During non-peak testing times, clinics shared kits rather than purchasing, reducing supply expenses per visit by 22.7%. Patient care was enhanced by ensuring the availability of supplies during peak testing periods. The streamlined process improved team dynamics and alignment with organizational goals.
Insights:
This approach enhances accountability, supports resource optimization, and ensures preparedness for respiratory season. Integration of technology in inventory management leads to substantial cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Patients benefit from access to testing supplies, improving health outcomes. The broader care environment sees improved resource allocation and preparedness for future healthcare challenges.
Implications:
This strategy is scalable across service lines. Adding barcode scanners could further automate the process, increasing efficiency and financial savings. Lessons learned include the importance of ease of use and minimal disruption to existing workflows. Future recommendations include expanding the system to cover a wider range of medical supplies and exploring additional technological solutions.
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
11-12-2025
Streamlining Medical Supply Inventory: A Technological Approach to Cost Reduction
Introduction and Context:
Inventory management of lab and medical supplies is crucial for cost control and operational efficiency, especially with high-cost supplies like COVID and flu tests. Historically, Atrium Health Urgent Cares faced inefficiencies in purchasing oversight, leading to budget overruns and misalignment between supply and demand. These challenges were addressed by using technology to streamline processes, align with healthcare demands, and improve operational efficiency.
Implementation Strategy:
Streamlining inventory management, a QR code system was implemented for teammates to input COVID and flu kit counts weekly. The Microsoft Form records location and unopened test kit inventory. The data is exported into a spreadsheet, while Epic SlicerDicer tracks tests ordered and positivity rates. This snapshot helps identify testing trends and trigger standing orders. Nursing staff were essential to ensure accurate inventory counts and smooth system integration.
Outcomes and Impact:
Analyzing inventory trends alongside testing demands, we established accurate par levels, reduced overstock and shortages, and managed expenses. During non-peak testing times, clinics shared kits rather than purchasing, reducing supply expenses per visit by 22.7%. Patient care was enhanced by ensuring the availability of supplies during peak testing periods. The streamlined process improved team dynamics and alignment with organizational goals.
Insights:
This approach enhances accountability, supports resource optimization, and ensures preparedness for respiratory season. Integration of technology in inventory management leads to substantial cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Patients benefit from access to testing supplies, improving health outcomes. The broader care environment sees improved resource allocation and preparedness for future healthcare challenges.
Implications:
This strategy is scalable across service lines. Adding barcode scanners could further automate the process, increasing efficiency and financial savings. Lessons learned include the importance of ease of use and minimal disruption to existing workflows. Future recommendations include expanding the system to cover a wider range of medical supplies and exploring additional technological solutions.
Affiliations
Atrium Health WFB Ambulatory