Large teams involved in the process, numerous human errors, delays, returns… probably all these things are familiar to you when it comes to resupplying. Some equipment types require that components and spare parts are replaced regularly. others need technical maintenance, sometimes according to a schedule. In these cases, the provider’s supply chain must operate perfectly without any disruptions that can affect the patients’ health. They must get their orders in time. On the other hand, business processes become very complicated with big teams involved. Large volumes of resources like paper and ink are constantly needed.
Communication with patients also becomes an issue. When a customer wants to know the status of an order or get some historical data, it takes a lot of time to find something in the paper archive or get the information requested. Moreover, if a prescription is outdated, getting a new one and buying the necessary equipment will also be a long and not very exciting journey. This results in disappointment and client churn. Addressing equipment routing problems can also be a challenge because of the big staff and the significant number of human errors a large staff size can introduce.
Going Digital
But as we see the healthcare industry digitalizing, automating operations in the HME/DME business can also be a good solution for resupply issues. Reliable HME/DME software connects all processes into one single platform that operates quickly and efficiently.
Some solutions can send automatic reminders to patients telling them it’s time to replace some spare parts in their devices. If a patient initiates an order, the system allows him to check product availability in the warehouse. Then the integration with external databases gives a supplier an opportunity to check if this patient is fully compliant with all requirements and can receive the product. If, for example, the prescription is outdated, then the request for a new one will be made automatically.
After that, the billing system starts working. If a patient has insurance, a prescription from his physician, and good financial history, the software will automatically generate an invoice and send it to the customer. In the end, the administrative aspect of the order is completed without any effort from the human side. After the payment has been processed the order automatically gets the delivery status. So, after making several clicks on the supplier’s website, the patient just needs to meet a courier with a package at the door.
As the world around changes quickly, it is crucial for HME/DME suppliers to meet modern requirements and stay competitive. One of the main rules for business is: do not make your client think. If he sees that buying from you takes time and effort from his side, he will prefer another provider who can smooth the purchase of the required products.
Benefits
Reputation also matters, as apart from traditional marketing tools, you can benefit from positive client feedback, too. If they recommend you to their friends or other people (for example, on social media), it may result in getting more and more new customers. But this means you also need to process more orders and do it quickly and efficiently. Your resupply automation will play a vital role in your business growth.
Using reliable software will give you an opportunity to improve your results in a short period of time. For example, NikoHealth makes order fulfillment 76% faster with intuitive and connected workflows. Effective inventory control reduces the number of out-of-stock cases by nearly 92%. And paperwork will be literally eliminated. So, check out and see what NikoHealth can do for you.
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