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Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has over 1,100 beds and cares for more than one million people every year. With such a high volume of patients, there is a need for staff to work as efficiently and effectively as possible.

The Trust recently worked with specialist supplier e-Tradeway to develop an innovative stock management system which addressed several problems: crucial resuscitation equipment not always being easily accessible; a mismatch of suitable available products; resources being wasted and with it, budget.

The solution was to install a state-of-the-art, centrally located vending machine, used to stock key products.

Once the procurement steering committee had identified this solution, the procurement department presented a business case to the Finance Director.

Best solution for all

The vending machine was initially trialed for a short period, in order to ensure it was the best solution for both staff and patients.

Since it was rolled out across the Trust, the vending machine has proved very successful.

Standardised, approved products are now available around the clock and staff are no longer faced with unfamiliar equipment at a time of crisis.

The automatic management of stock dates avoids stock going out of date, and new stock can be delivered in a timely fashion; all of which avoids waste and saves money which can be reinvested into other parts of the service.

Well engaged staff

Trust staff were well engaged in the process, particularly during the trial and roll-out period, and they continue to provide feedback and ideas for further improvement.

After the success of the first vending machine, there is a desire to increase their number, both within the main hospital site and also at the Trust鈥檚 community hospital.

There are plans to develop the current offering by introducing lockers and cabinets with a touch screen interface, which will link into a central data hub, allowing larger items to be dispensed.