Winter is upon us, yet too often cold weather scenario planning is an afterthought for supply chain managers. But blizzards and ice storms are relatively common occurrences with a number of solutions to overcome challenges. Recent arctic blasts serve as reminders that proper preparation for the cold can help you be ready not only for winter’s worst, but for other natural disasters that might occur.
An ounce of prevention
Winter storms can knock out both power/communications and deliveries. To deal with the power and phone outages, you'll need back-up generators and satellite phones — but the best way to deal with road closures and other delivery challenges is to avoid them altogether. Work with your distributor to set up weather alerts and to arrange for advance deliveries when winter weather threatens.
When in doubt, take a dose of data
Most suppliers can prepare usage reports by month (even by day) and by department so that if ordering systems are down, they can deliver the right items and amounts based on your historical usage. Talk through a worst-case scenario so it's clear what an "automatic order" will be and which fail-safe delivery routes are already planned.
Stockless programs won't leave you out in the cold
Many supply chain managers like the idea of saving money and space through low-inventory programs like stockless or just in time, but worry that a weather event or epidemic could leave them with stock-outs. Those who use these programs, however, say that planning and communications can prevent shortages even during natural disasters. Distributors handle emergency orders and often agree to set aside allocated reserves to ensure a guaranteed supply of needed products.
Inoculate against the flu
With winter comes the flu, and with the flu comes increased demand for many products, from test kits to needles and syringes. Work with your supplier to analyze both historical data and up-to-the-minute trends so you’re prepared as the flu season hits.
There's no one-size fits all plan, but there are customized options built around your facility and various scenarios, not just winter weather. Whether you're a large medical center in "tornado alley" or a river-town integrated delivery network that must be prepared for power outages and flooding, plan ahead so that you're ready for the worst.
Elizabeth Hilla is executive director of the HIDA Educational Foundation, an affiliate of the Health Industry Distributors Association. The Foundation is devoted to education and research that increases efficiency and effectiveness within the healthcare supply channel. She also serves as a senior vice president at HIDA.