Key Highlights
- Formation of the Southern California PPE Consortium by L.A. Care Health Plan, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), and the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC) in response to COVID-19 PPE shortages.
- Partnership with Dell Corning to provide quality, competitively priced PPE supplies, aiming to establish a local stockpile and boost local PPE manufacturing.
- Participation of Ten Southern California Counties in the consortium, with a guaranteed pricing agreement for three years to ensure consistent supply and prevent price gouging during emergencies.
Source: Direct
Notable Quotes
- “Before the pandemic, most people had probably never heard of the acronym PPE…We knew we had to act, so Southern California providers and residents wouldn’t suffer due to disrupted supply chains.” – John Baackes, CEO at L.A. Care Health Plan
- “Purchasing through the PPE Consortium is an important step that health providers can take in preventing delays, shortages, and price gouging in future emergencies.” – George W. Greene, President and CEO at HASC
- “The PPE Consortium is an ongoing effort that will guide our response to future emergencies.” – Jarrod McNaughton, CEO at IEHP
SoH's Take
The establishment of the Southern California PPE Consortium is a significant and commendable step towards mitigating the challenges faced by healthcare providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. By securing a reliable and local supply chain for PPE, this initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also strategically prepares for future health emergencies. The consortium’s focus on quality, affordability, and local production highlights a proactive approach to public health preparedness, setting a model for other regions to emulate. Moreover, the collaboration between major healthcare organizations and a reputable supplier like Dell Corning underscores the importance of partnerships in strengthening healthcare infrastructure. With this initiative, Southern California is poised to enhance its healthcare response capabilities, ultimately benefiting the broader community in times of crisis.
