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Choosing a medical packaging supplier
Choosing the right medical packaging supplier has never been more important. With today's increased level of awareness of regulations and cost, having the right supplier as part of your team is imperative. Potential suppliers should be evaluated for the level of service and support they offer and for their ability to partner with you on key initiatives.
Service
Most medical device manufacturers (MDMs) look for on-time and accurate delivery when evaluating a new supplier. However, additional critical service issues should be evaluated as well, including:
- Lead time necessary for and accuracy of quotes. Establish the expectations for time to turn around a quote. Check for a system that manages the flow of information.
- Lead time for and accuracy of sample requests. Establish the expectations for time to turn around a sample request.
- Minimum volume requirements for orders. Understand how pricing structures will be affected as volumes increase or decrease.
- Ability to react to quality issues.
- Does the supplier have a formal CAPA system in place that handles external as well as internal complaints?
- Does the supplier have a good understanding of your quality system?
- Evidence of continuous improvement programs that involve quality and manufacturing.
- Willingness to entertain inventory programs such as dock-to-stock or Kanban.
Support
How willing is the supplier to offer support? Suppliers have a wealth of knowledge gained from working with many MDMs, making them an excellent source for the latest industry trends and regulatory issues. Suppliers are often active in industry associations that develop test methods, standards, etc. This type of information can be very helpful to the MDM—find out how willing a prospective supplier is to share its knowledge with you.
From a technical staffing perspective, can the supplier provide support in the following areas?
- Package design expertise
- Troubleshooting
- Understanding of global requirements including ISO 11607
- Thorough understanding of device packaging engineering tasks and the flow of packaging projects at the MDM's level
- Design inputs
- Material selection and evaluation (package test methods)
- Package system development (sterile barrier system/protective packaging)
- Trial support
- Validation of the sterile barrier system and associated processes
- Stability (expiration dating evaluation)
Partner
The final step in the selection process is assessing the willingness and ability of the supplier to be a partner. Solid supplier/customer partnerships should include some, if not all, of the following elements:
- New technology consistently brought to your attention
- Willingness to interact with your wants and needs
- Ability to provide updates on industry trends and regulatory requirements
- Offering cost savings ideas without solicitation
- Providing honest assessments
- Listening and responding to needs
- Willingness to develop new products with your voice in mind
The careful evaluation of potential suppliers can lead to the selection of a trusted partner who will provide value-added service and support for years to come. Take the time upfront to be sure your new supplier provides the best fit for your needs.
About the author
Kevin Zacharias manages Oliver-Tolas OnSite package engineering services and oversees project management of new product development.
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