Initial Projects
Unit and Dose Packaging Systems Analysis
Investigators: Profs. Russell D. Meller, Scott J. Mason, and Sarah E. Root
Students: Jen Pazour and Yasin Unlu
The Challenge: Medications are typically distributed by manufacturers in bulk, but to increase patient safety, they are often administered to inpatients in unit-doses and to outpatients in dose packs. A systems analysis is needed to determine the best manner for the implied repackaging and labeling of the medications so as to generalize best practices.
Identifying Opportunities for Cost & Quality Improvements in Healthcare Logistics
Investigators: Profs. Heather Nachtmann and Edward A. Pohl
Students: Brian Smith and Jared Townsley
The Challenge: As healthcare costs continue to rise, there is limited understanding of achievable cost and quality improvements throughout the delivery system. Healthcare supply chains are believed to be highly inefficient and expensive, but the magnitude of associated costs and quality implications are not well documented.
Receiving-to-Patient Hospital Supply Chain Digitalization
Investigators: Profs. Ron Rardin, Nebil Buyurgan, and Craig Thompson
Students: Angelica Burbano, Josh Eno, and Behlul Saka
The Challenge: Medical and surgical material handling from hospital receiving to the point of care is often fragmented, low tech, and ad hoc. This leads to inconsistent procurement and inventory control on the floors and wings, including unnecessary stockouts and outdates/obsolescence, in addition to excessive staff time spent foraging for materials.