RFID-enabled traceability system for consignment and high value products: a case study in the healthcare sector

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Supply Chain Logistics
• Medical Device Tracking

Background:

• Hospitals face challenges in managing high-value and consignment medical supplies.
• Item-level traceability is crucial for accurate inventory and financial control in operating rooms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an RFID-enabled traceability system for managing operating room supplies.
• To assess the system's impact on inventory management, financial controls, and patient care.

Main Methods:

• Case study implementation of an RFID traceability system in a hospital operating room.
• Evaluation of system performance in managing consignment and high-value products.
• Analysis of redesigned replenishment processes alongside the RFID system.

Main Results:

• The RFID system facilitated item-level traceability and improved financial controls.
• Significant reductions in inventory shrinkage and improvements in service levels were observed.
• Time savings from non-value-added activities were redirected to patient care.

Conclusions:

• RFID-enabled traceability systems offer a viable alternative or complementary solution to existing inventory management methods.
• The system enhances end-to-end traceability of medical products within the healthcare supply chain.
• Implementation leads to operational efficiencies and improved resource allocation in healthcare settings.