Zebra Technologies Hospital Vision Study: Link Between Digital Inventory Management and Improved Patient Care in Acute-Care Hospitals

Zebra Technologies recently released the findings of its latest hospital vision study, titled “Critical Supplies, Critical Outcomes: The Quest for Excellence in Materials Management.” The study highlighted the crucial link between digital inventory management and improved patient care in acute-care hospitals.

According to the study, 84% of non-clinical hospital leaders believe that integrating automated and digitized inventory tracking systems is a priority for their organizations. Hospital asset inventories must be managed precisely to ensure clinicians have the essential supplies, equipment, and medications readily available to provide the best patient care.

The study also revealed that procedures or surgeries are often canceled due to out-of-stock, low-stock, or lost supplies, which is a significant problem for hospitals. Additionally, clinical staff spend too much time searching for medical equipment, materials, or supplies when needed, and recovering all recalled or expired items is a challenge.

To address these issues, hospital leaders are turning to technology and digital solutions such as real-time location systems (RTLS), radio frequency identification (RFID), and artificial intelligence (AI) analytics. These solutions can help improve inventory tracking, visibility, accuracy, and ultimately enhance patient care.

Overall, the study underscores the importance of hospital leaders’ materials management in improving clinicians’ efficiency, productivity, and ability to provide the best patient care. By leveraging technology and digitization, hospitals can strengthen workflows and benefit both staff and patients.

The findings of the study provide valuable insights for hospitals looking to enhance their inventory management practices and ultimately improve patient outcomes.