Core Problem:

Vendors frequently entered perioperative areas without properly changing into designated scrubs, and often left the facility without switching back to street clothes.

This practice violated strict perioperative compliance procedures, increasing the risk of contamination between facilities. Additionally, since vendors were leaving with facility-issued scrubs, many were never returned, leading to significant losses and increased costs for scrub replacements.

The lack of proper oversight not only posed compliance risks but also burdened the facility with higher operational expenses.

Initial Struggle:

In early 2024, UNC Ambulatory Care Center was facing serious perioperative compliance challenges with its vendor management processes.

Compliance rates were initially as low as 40.6%, with non-compliance peaking at 58.1%. The inconsistent adherence to credentialing policies meant staff were spending hours each week manually tracking vendors, diverting valuable time away from patient care.

This inefficiency risked regulatory compliance, creating significant operational burdens. They faced uncomfortable questions from the Joint Commission as the facility struggled to explain why vendors were seen wearing surgical scrubs outside designated areas.