Abstract

This case study provides empirical evidence of the effect of implementing an integrated supply chain strategy province-wide to improve the safety, quality and performance of Alberta Health Services (AHS). AHS implemented a transformational supply chain strategy, enabled by GS1 standards, to achieve traceability of all products, equipment and patient safety events across the health system. Key features of the AHS strategy include strong vision and leadership, price harmonization, a provincial item master and integrated data infrastructure and a centralized warehouse and distribution strategy. Outcomes to date demonstrate a 7:1 return on investment, automated recall and traceability of patient safety events province-wide.