Can AI Be Used To Build Resilient Healthcare Supply Chains?

Stability is crucial in healthcare.

However, healthcare companies are facing bigger challenges in managing their supply chains. Disruptions are becoming more common, so procurement systems need to be more flexible.

Healthcare Digital and Amazon Business are hosting a discussion on the use of AI in healthcare supply chains.

The session will cover topics such as forecasting, inventory control, and clarifying supplier information.

Healthcare executives and supply chain managers interested in new procurement technology can now register for the event.

If you want to learn how AI can help build and improve supply chains that remain strong during global disruptions, sign up for the webinar here.

How AI and automation are used in healthcare

The event will show how automation tools can help make healthcare supply chains more visible. One example is using machine learning to improve forecasting accuracy.

Participants will examine how data analysis can help reduce uncertainty in procurement planning, including real examples of organisations using algorithms to process supplier data.

In a recent example from the market, Haleon has entered a five-year partnership with Microsoft to expand its use of digital technology, data and artificial intelligence across its consumer health operations.

Claire Dickson, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Haleon, says the partnership supports how the company applies technology to its business model.

"By combining Microsoft's cloud and AI capabilities with Haleon's deep consumer health expertise, we're accelerating our AI progress – simplifying how we work, unlocking more value from our data, accelerating innovation and helping our teams make faster, smarter decisions to benefit our consumers," she says.

Procurement strategies and managing risk

Earlier this year, the healthcare sector, along with many others, found itself stretched by conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. 

Major manufacturers warned of imminent inventory shortages as emergency air routes struggle to meet capacity demands.

Air freight costs soared by more than 400% within two days, affecting several Indian pharmaceutical exports that rely on shipping routes through the region.

Part of the webinar will cover how to build procurement systems that can handle disruptions. Healthcare organisations also have to comply with regulations, which can make it harder to choose suppliers.

The session will explore ways to reduce operational risk while still meeting compliance standards. It will also cover strategies for working with different suppliers and for calculating inventory buffers.

Using data to manage inventory

Managing inventory in healthcare requires precision due to expiration dates and storage costs. The event will show how data analytics tools are being used to make better decisions about stock levels.

Working together with suppliers can help healthcare providers forecast demand more accurately. Participants will discuss ways to share information while respecting competition.

Healthcare executives and supply chain managers interested in new procurement technology can now sign up for the event.

The World Economic Forum recently highlighted how China has become a leading example of where digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) can create more efficient, sustainable and patient-centred healthcare systems.

About Amazon Business

Amazon Business is a global platform that helps organisations buy more easily, control spending, and make their supply chains more efficient.

The platform makes complex buying simpler and offers tools to help everyday purchases support sustainability goals.

With Guided Buying, administrators can set rules, highlight preferred items, or block purchases that do not meet the organisation’s ESG standards.

Amazon Business also shows supplier sustainability ratings, such as EcoVadis scores, directly on supplier listings when you make a purchase.

To find out how AI can help create and improve supply chains that stay strong during global disruptions, sign up for the webinar here.