Heal Your Budget By Curing Costly Procurement Practices

In today’s healthcare landscape, cost-efficiency is more crucial than ever.

The NHS is feeling the squeeze due to growing operational expenses, higher workforce costs, increasing demand, and the effects of inflation. As a result, NHS Trusts in England reported a combined deficit of £1.1 billion for the 2021-2022 financial year[1].

Hospital estate managers are constantly challenged to balance tight budgets with the need for high-quality, reliable equipment that ensures patient safety and operational efficiency. This is particularly true in the context of procurement, where the decisions made can significantly impact both immediate costs and long-term financial sustainability.

Fortunately, DDC offers a range of solutions that not only address these procurement challenges but also provide substantial cost savings over time.

Understanding Procurement Challenges in Healthcare

Managing healthcare procurement is a challenging endeavour, requiring careful consideration of multiple elements such as budget limitations, quality requirements, and the distinct needs of various departments.

In addition, hospital estate managers must ensure that the products they procure meet stringent hygiene and safety requirements, while also being mindful of the overall cost. Furthermore, with the ongoing pressure to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), it is essential to invest in equipment that supports effective infection control without compromising on cost-efficiency.

Strategic procurement is the key to achieving a balance of quality and expense.

You’ll need to consider far more than just the balance of the initial invoice. Total cost of ownership - which includes maintenance, energy consumption, and product lifespan – will dramatically impact budgets over time. This is why it’s essential to choose equipment that will deliver value over its entire lifecycle, rather than being a short-term fix that ends up costing more in the long run.

DDC’s Cost-Saving Solutions

DDC leads in delivering cutting-edge sluice room solutions, with an emphasis on value for money. Here’s how our products can help reduce expenditure and enhance efficiency:

• Energy-Efficient Technologies. DDC’s Pulpmatic range of bedpan macerators and Panamatic bedpan washer disinfectors are engineered to be highly energy efficient. These machines use minimal water and energy, which not only reduces operational costs but also contributes to your facility’s sustainability goals. For instance, the Pulpmatic Eco+ is the most economical macerator on the market, providing substantial energy savings while maintaining top hygiene standards.
• Durability and Longevity. One of the most effective ways to save money is by investing in durable equipment that requires less frequent replacement. DDC’s products are built to last, with robust construction and advanced technology that ensure long-term reliability. Regular servicing and maintenance, which we offer as part of our comprehensive support packages, further extend the lifespan of these machines, reducing the need for costly replacements.
• Eco-Friendly Systems. Our Pulpmatic macerators are designed with the environment in mind. The use of paper pulp, which is made from sustainable materials, not only provides a cost-effective solution but also reduces the environmental impact of waste disposal. Additionally, our Vacumatic waste disposal system reduces waste volume by up to 50%, lowering waste disposal costs and contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. That’s not all – We supply eco-friendly patient care wipes that are maceratable and flushable, too. No more blocked pipes!

Efficiency Improvements with DDC

Efficiency is another critical factor in reducing costs in healthcare environments. DDC’s solutions are designed to streamline operations, optimise resource use, and enhance infection control.

• Streamlined Operations. Our hands-free, automated systems save valuable time for clinicians, allowing them to focus more on patient care rather than on managing waste disposal. The Pulpmatic Uno macerator completes its cycle in just 65 seconds, and the Ultima – while being higher capacity - only 120 seconds. In addition, the Panamatic bedpan washer disinfectors can disinfect utensils in just 6 minutes. This speed and efficiency reduce the time staff spend on non-care activities, improving overall productivity.
• Optimised Resource Use. By minimising water and energy consumption, DDC’s machines help lower operational costs. The advanced design of our washer disinfectors, with features like fixed and rotating wash nozzles, ensures thorough cleaning while using minimal resources. This efficiency not only saves money but also supports environmental sustainability
• Infection Control. Effective infection control is key to preventing costly ward shutdowns and protecting both patients and staff from HCAIs. DDC’s equipment, such as our antimicrobial bedpan washers and hands-free macerators, significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination. The Vacumatic system, with its vacuum-sealed waste disposal, further enhances infection control by eliminating odours and sealing harmful bacteria and viruses within airtight bags.

Procurement Strategies for Increasing Savings

When considering procurement, it’s important to look beyond the initial purchase price and evaluate the total cost of ownership (TCO). DDC’s solutions offer excellent value over their lifespan, thanks to their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements.

Working with DDC as a procurement partner provides additional benefits, too.

We offer tailored procurement plans, ongoing support, and maintenance services that ensure your equipment remains in top condition. Our machine reporting features, for example, allow you to forecast costs accurately and manage your capital expenditure budget effectively. This proactive approach to asset management helps prevent unexpected expenses and maximises the value of your investment.

In the pursuit of cost-efficiency and high-quality care, DDC’s sluice room solutions deliver the advantage.

By investing in our energy-efficient, durable, and eco-friendly products, hospital estate managers can heal their budget through significant cost savings and operational efficiency. Strategic procurement planning, supported by our comprehensive service and maintenance offerings, ensures that your facility remains equipped to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.

Keen to explore how DDC’s solutions can help you optimise your procurement strategy, reduce costs, and improve efficiency across your healthcare environment?