Healthcare's Hidden Hero: The Supply Chain

In a recent episode of SCANHealthCan, Dana Trampas, host, sat down with Altaf Stationwala, President and CEO of Mackenzie Health, to delve into the nuances of healthcare supply chain management and the lessons learned during the pandemic.

Altaf brings over 25 years of experience in healthcare leadership, with insights from organizations like Mount Sinai Hospital, William Osler Health Centre and currently Mackenzie Health. He shares a unique perspective on how supply chain resilience impacts patient care, particularly in times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mackenzie Health, serving communities north of Toronto, faced unique challenges during the pandemic, including massive population growth and the opening of a new hospital, Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital. Altaf reflects on the vital role supply chain played in ensuring essential supplies reached frontline workers and patients.

The pandemic highlighted the need for robust supply chain management and visibility. Altaf discusses how technology and data analytics are transforming supply chain management, from improving product traceability to enhancing safety, quality, efficiency and reducing waste. Data analytics emerged as a key factor in enhancing supply chain resilience. Altaf highlighted the importance of leveraging data to track product movement, optimize workflows, and ensure product traceability. The adoption of technologies like electronic medical records and barcode scanning at the point of care, facilitated real-time data capture, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation.

Leadership's role in driving supply chain resilience is crucial. Altaf emphasizes the importance of empowering staff and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. He shared how Mackenzie Health is championing initiatives like reusable gowns to reduce environmental impact and reduce costs.

Looking ahead, Altaf envisions a future where supply chain discussions are a central focus at boardroom tables and executive meetings, driving positive change and ensuring healthcare organizations deliver optimal care focused on the health and wellbeing of both patients and the workforce.

Join us in acknowledging and appreciating the unsung hero behind every healthcare success story: the supply chain. Listen to Altaf’s episode here.