How do SUD reprocessing programs deliver more value? Try injecting some science into the collection and program management process.

In recent years, many hospitals and EP labs have seen a decline in the dollar savings from SUD reprocessing programs. Since SUD reprocessing companies are able to get clearance for more and more devices, the opposite should have been the case: More and more devices should be reprocessed, reducing the overall cost of procedures. Similarly, since reprocessing has become second-nature to many clinical teams across the country, programs should yield more and more savings, as these teams improved on collection compliance. This has rarely been the case.

So, what happened? The answer is baffling. SUD reprocessing companies were integrated with larger manufacturers, and all but stopped submitting new devices to FDA. But even without new clearances, hospitals should have been expected to get better and better at reprocessing, constantly monitoring and managing the flow of used devices. Instead, most SUD reprocessors have backed off from direct involvement with the collection and in-servicing practices that once drove increases in savings. And no new systems have been put in place for streamlining the flow of product. It’s all the same old stuff offered: “remember to collect” messages, formal independence from the manufacturer, calls for buy-back compliance, serving pancakes to increase staff engagement…

SUD reprocessing companies were integrated with larger manufacturers, and all but stopped submitting new devices to FDA.

We are trying a different approach: Putting science into SUD reprocessing program management. The idea is that if we can identify the steps in efficient program management, and lay these out in a clear roadmap, we can ensure compliance by sticking to this management process, and ensure, in fact guarantee, results. Innovative Health’s recent video on program management shows our process in detail. The key to the efficient SUD reprocessing program is - - data. And then more data. We analyze procurement data to provide a clear image to the EP lab about not just what they can save through reprocessing, but also what they are paying the original manufacturers for new, and how the device utilization OVERALL can become more economical for the EP lab and the hospital. And then, we follow up with more data on an ongoing basis, to ensure that nobody loses focus and savings continue to grow.

The key to the efficient SUD reprocessing program is - - data.

It is also our program roadmap that helps us guarantee a savings increase when a hospital decides to switch their reprocessing partner to Innovative Health. And it is what helps us make the transition quickly, usually within 3 weeks, and without any hassle for hospital staff.

And then, there are collections. Seems simple; once the device has been used, wipe them down, put them in bags and place in bins. And yet, this is a part of the process that is so often broken. 100% of all devices that can be reprocessed should be collected. But sometimes collection compliance has dropped to 70% or even 60%. Why? Hospital staff knows it saves them money to collect? The trouble is that if collection procedures interfere with other tasks or even demand a few minutes of extra time, compliance often drops.

100% of all devices that can be reprocessed should be collected. But sometimes collection compliance has dropped to 70% or 60%. Why?

This is why Innovative Health has partnered with scientists to study collection practices and to develop instruments that can increase collections without placing more demands on hospital staff. The “science of collections” may sound a bit obsessed, but we bet it will drive increased savings for our hospital partners. And that IS our obsession.