1. Decisions are made in a variety of ways depending on type of product/service and value in conjunction with the relevant stakeholders ultimately in line with Trust Standing Financial Instructions.
There is a Trust-wide policy overseeing medical devices company representatives and how Trust staff interact with these individuals. Cold-calling is prohibited and representatives will only be seen through pre-arranged appointments. The Trust also uses ‘Intellicentrics’ database system.
2. Work is undertaken between Procurement/Finance/Estates/EBME in line with Trust Disposal policy to decide what happens with equipment end of life. Some equipment is disposed of or recycled appropriately and those with a resale value are sent to auction.
Medical equipment is always purchased based on clinical needs and maintained to an optimal state in relevant clinical areas. Therefore, redundant and surplus equipment is not really applicable. In the event of obsolescence, or devices deemed ‘beyond economical repair’, the corresponding Ward/department is notified with accompanied quotations. If this equipment is high-cost, then replacement will be overseen by the Medical Devices Steering Committee. If the item is less than £5000, then the Trust’s Medical Engineering department will advise.
3. Yes, and the Trust has the following in place.
· Sustainable development Plan
· Travel Plan
· Sustainability Policy
· Energy and Carbon Management policy
· Waste Management policy