Every supply chain executive has heard the rap on GPOs: Great for commodities, not so great at identifying and contracting for new, exciting technologies. GPO executives would beg to differ. Premier, for example, would point to its Innovation Celebration; Intalere to the “New technology” section of its tradeshow; Vizient at its Innovative Technology Exchange and Clinical Connections Summit; and HealthTrust its Physician Advisors Program.
The Journal of Healthcare Contracting asked several GPOs to comment on the GPO’s role in helping its members stay on top of innovation. Responding to questions were:
- Lori Pilla, vice president, custom contracting and supply chain consulting solutions; and Tom Wessling, vice president contracting operations, Intalere.
- Debbie Archer, procurement director, innovative technology, Vizient.
- Matthew Willis, M.D., orthopedic surgeon practicing in Nashville, Tenn., who serves as a HealthTrust physician advisor.
- Michael J. Alkire, COO, Premier Inc.