University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (UHDB) was struggling to carry out product recalls quickly and efficiently.
Traceability was a manual paper-based process causing a drain on clinical time. Existing processes for tracking implants and other products to patients were inadequate. The recent PIP breast implant scandal highlighted the need for accurate, timely, and comprehensive information.
A solution was required that could be implemented across all theatres, and into wards and clinics.
The Trust created a cloud-based inventory management system, alongside a comprehensive product catalogue and barcode scanning solution.
GS1 identifiers and barcodes were used to identify products, staff, patients, surgical instruments, and medical equipment. This information was then stored electronically, leaving a detailed digital paper trail of every procedure.
The data was also integrated into the Trust’s financial system. This enabled automatic order creation via EDI or email whenever supplies were low, or high levels of usage were seen.
UHDB is now easily able to identify all products that are held within the Trust at any given time. This makes product recall a straightforward process. The clinical team can see all patients that may have been affected by the recalled products – even patients with implants who are now at home.
There are positive financial implications, too. With each procedure, a complete and accurate cost is calculated. As a result, the Trust has estimated efficiency savings of almost £2 million since implementation.
If you would like to submit a case study demonstrating how your trust has implemented GS1 standards, email us at healthcare.casestudies@gs1uk.org