Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- Suppliers should actively participate in feedback sessions to shape the medical devices program.
- Understanding Pharmac’s priorities can expedite processes like RFPs.
- Building trust through open communication can resolve negotiation challenges.
- Technological advancements will play a crucial role in supplier engagement.
- Collaboration with Health New Zealand aims to simplify supplier processes.
New Zealand’s Pharmac is taking significant strides to bolster its medical devices program through active engagement with suppliers. In a recent webinar, attended by over 190 participants, Pharmac outlined its ambitious plan to enhance value and equitable access to medical devices across hospitals nationwide. This initiative reflects Pharmac’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with suppliers, ensuring better health outcomes for New Zealanders.
Webinar Highlights
Catherine Epps, Director of Medical Devices at Pharmac, emphasized the importance of the recent webinar, which served as a platform for suppliers to gain insights into Pharmac’s strategic direction. Following presentations at the Medical Technology Association of NZ Healthtech conference, this event provided additional clarity on the medical devices program. Suppliers learned about the proposed comprehensive list of medical devices for Health NZ and received updates on the national Health Technology Assessment process. Epps highlighted plans to enhance supplier engagement through technology, ensuring a more streamlined interaction.
Supplier Feedback and Interaction
The webinar’s interactive Q&A session allowed suppliers to voice their feedback and concerns regarding the program. Epps underscored the significance of supplier input in refining Pharmac’s strategies, stating that understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by suppliers is crucial. She also noted that stronger supplier relationships can lead to improved health outcomes, citing a new escalation process for negotiations that has fostered trust and expedited the resolution of complex contractual issues.
Pharmac is working diligently with Health New Zealand to simplify the medical devices program, making it more accessible and transparent for suppliers. Epps reiterated the commitment to provide consistent and clear information, ensuring that suppliers can navigate the system with ease. The ongoing collaboration aims to streamline processes, ultimately benefiting both suppliers and the healthcare system.
Pharmac’s proactive approach in engaging with suppliers marks a pivotal step towards optimizing the medical devices landscape in New Zealand. By fostering open dialogue and leveraging technology, Pharmac not only aims to enhance supplier relationships but also to ensure that New Zealanders receive the best possible health outcomes. Suppliers stand to benefit from a more transparent and efficient system, making it imperative for them to stay informed and actively participate in these initiatives.
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