By Justin Sowko, Director, Supply Chain/Special Projects, OC Reilly, Inc.

(July 20, 2020)–As the second half of 2020 begins, it offers a moment of reflection and rededication.

It has certainly been a year for the books so far, with a global pandemic seizing the attention and action of leaders and citizens in virtually every nation. We have seen a number of approaches implemented in the U.S., with varying levels of success in preventing and treating the COVID-19 virus.

Our hope, naturally, is for medical and pharmaceutical researchers to successfully develop vaccines and treatments to eradicate this virus and permit the world economy to regain its footing on a more secure long-term foundation.   We are encouraged by progress along those lines and continue to remain positive.

As a premier advisor of healthcare supply chain management, we at OC Reilly have developed an Emergency Response and Preparation Playbook. We have observed how multiple organizations have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they are preparing for future possibilities. With this knowledge in hand, we have considered the positives and negatives, and have applied our expertise to come up with a game plan to help all clients cope with similar disruptions, both now and in the future.

Highlights include ideas on how healthcare system administrators can: build a team with clearly delineated duties related to preparation; get an accurate value of all inventory; establish protocols for reports to executives; anticipate issues related to governance and compliance; and many additional factors.

COVID-19 has proven that it does not respect geographical maps, political parties, demographics, or any other variable. It remains a relentless threat, even as states relax restrictions and businesses attempt to reopen safely. The ripple effect on our healthcare system – and its supply chain requirements – will continue to feel the strain.

Healthcare is a disruptive environment already. Given the impact of the current pandemic, we believe this Emergency Response and Preparation Playbook represents a valuable resource to help health care leaders manage through emergencies yet to occur.

Enjoy the rest of this summer, and let us know how we can work with you in the most impactful way possible.

© 2020 OC Reilly, Inc.