Every hospital has a process for removing biomed assets from service. But the question is — how efficient is that disposition workflow?
We looked recently at how inventory records fall apart due to disjointed disposition workflows. So let’s look at how to actually stay on track and end the cycle of inventory (re)processing.
What does an ideal disposition workflow look like?
The secret to an effective disposition workflow is a centralized system that connects accurate inventory records with all key stakeholders. By using a centralized inventory management system, hospitals can keep the entire workflow in one place, including essential asset details, records of who is responsible for approvals, and where requests are in the process.
So what happens in each stage of an ideal workflow?
1. Asset Retires from Service
A disposition system integrated with your actual inventory keeps all details readily available, requiring minimal input from the requestor. This includes details like an asset’s make, model, and identifying numbers.
Simply find an asset’s record, choose the best disposition method, and submit for approvals.
2. Efficient & Transparent Disposition Approval Process
From biomed admin to department heads and accounting, all key stakeholders should be integrated with the same system. A centralized process should track who has made approvals and where sign-off is still pending.
3. Physical Removal of Asset
Once all necessary approvals are complete, warehouse and loading dock workers should be notified that equipment is ready for removal. A centralized system notifies these parties just as easily as gaining sign-off approvals.
4. Updated & Accurate Asset Ledgers
With centralized information and approvals, asset ledgers are easily, if not automatically updated. This keeps records accurate and up to date in real time. A centralized system also makes it easy to notify outside stakeholders, such as the Finance department, to make updates in any additional databases.
Using BidMed’s Software Suite
The Helix tech suite is an all-in-one inventory management tool to connect biomed, finance & accounting, and warehouse departments. With tiered user access (including customized notifications and account dashboards), the right people are informed at each point in the disposition process.
Every user has a tailored account dashboard showing where an asset is along the disposition process. This helps add ownership and accountability at every stage, as well as increase transparency for other key stakeholders.
The centralized system also establishes clear next steps for all users, separating tasks requiring attention from those awaiting action from others.