Title: Integrating RFID into products and business processes to improve asset management in hospitals

Authors: Véronique Nabelsi

Addresses: Faculty of Management, Université du Québec en Outaouais, C.P. 1240, Succ. Hull, Gatineau, J8X 3X7, Canada

Abstract: Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology is earning increased attention from both practitioners and academics. This technology has been adopted by a variety of enterprises across the extended supply chain to improve operational efficiency and to gain a competitive advantage. The objective of this paper is to: 1) investigate the opportunities and challenges of integrating RFID technology into replenishment activities in one specific supply chain in the healthcare sector to help materials management services (MMS) to improve the visibility of real-time inventory and lead time information; 2) develop and validate a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) specific to replenishment activities. How should this technological advancement be integrated into business decision-making processes? What benefits can be expected from the use of RFID seems to improve and optimise asset management? Which KPIs are the most important and relevant to help manage the tracking process? This paper addresses these and related questions.

Keywords: radio frequency identification; RFID technology; asset management; supply chain management; SCM; healthcare sector; procurement; replenishment; key performance indicators; KPIs; replenishment; materials management; inventory information; lead times.

DOI: 10.1504/IJADS.2012.046508

International Journal of Applied Decision Sciences, 2012 Vol.5 No.2, pp.97 - 117

Published online: 09 Aug 2014 *

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