▪ Process automation: Intelligent robotic process automation (RPA) bots can assist with accurate and rapid inventory management, as well as timely delivery of critical medical supplies to the correct storerooms, by mitigating resource-heavy manual process. RPA can also accelerate exchange of data and automate workflows between a new supplier and a device organization. Using RPA tools, organizations can process high-volume orders sent in from distributors across the globe via a variety of channels (fax, online forms, spreadsheets, etc.) and enter the details into the ERP system for automatic completion of shipment.

Maturity level 4: Next-gen capabilities for supply chain management
▪ Digital twin: Having a digital twin for a device – that is, a mirrored digital counterpart for a physical device – can help predict its anomalies and subsequent failure. Proactive maintenance of devices likely to fail can reduce service needs and inventory-related costs for a device organization. Through digital twin technology, supply chain disruptions for devices can be simulated and potential responses can be planned in advance, so business can continue uninterrupted.
▪ Blockchain: Blockchain-empowered supply chain networks can be used to trace issues with the device quality as it provides visibility and transparency at every step of the process. Automatically conveying reports of critical issues to the relevant stakeholders or vendors via an integrated system provides an audit trail of all activity and helps all parties to avoid errors or miscommunications when collaborating on issue resolution.
Looking ahead
The medical device supply chain is expected to stabilize as the industry adjusts to a new post-pandemic normal, and the overall devices market is expected to grow to $603 billion by 2023, growing at 6.1% CAGR. Digitization of the supply chain for medical devices will undoubtedly play a key role in the general growth of the devices market as the spotlight continues to shine on the medical and healthcare sectors. To provide timely care, reduce costs and drive operational efficiency, medical device organizations must consider a plan for supply chain digitization. These efforts can be executed using a phased, multi-step approach, but it’s vital to purposefully prioritize this business-critical initiative.

About the authors: Dhaval Shah is the executive vice president of medical technology at CitiusTech. Manan Shah is the healthcare consultant for medical technology at CitiusTech.

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