Change management in healthcare is a critical aspect of ensuring a seamless transition when hospitals switch suppliers and distribution vendors . The healthcare supply chain is a complex system that requires meticulous planning and execution ,

especially during vendor transitions . Hospitals often face challenges such as data inaccuracies , system cut-over issues , and adherence to strict timelines . These challenges can disrupt operations and impact patient care if not managed properly .

Dedicated Implementation Teams Step one in any consideration of change management in healthcare supply chain vendors is a solid implementation team . In most systems , you have all the dedicated silos of specified work streams . To untangle these silos and create the synergy needed for a large change in the supply chain , such as going with a new distribution vendor , Medline has assembled a dedicated implementation team whose sole responsibility is onboarding

new business . A team of 20 analysts , four managers , and a senior manager spend all day every day preparing customers for onboarding .

This is critical for two reasons :

1 . A system now has a dedicated resource , so they don ’ t have to rely on a project management expert on their side to manage the process . The implementation team helps lead the project by utilizing project management tools to ensure all resources are available and accountable .