Expectations
Suppliers are expected to meet the institute's requirements for material traceability, documentation, lawful and ethical labour practice, environmental responsibility, confidentiality and prompt disclosure of any nonconformance affecting delivered material.
Materials traceability
Material supplied for clinical use must be traceable to its source and accompanied by the documentation the institute's quality process requires. Material that arrives without it is quarantined rather than accepted pending paperwork.
No inducements
Suppliers may not offer, and personnel may not accept, gifts, hospitality or arrangements intended to influence a purchasing, portfolio or clinical decision. Relevant relationships are disclosed under the conflict of interest policy.
Review
Supplier performance is reviewed on a defined cycle and at renewal. Nonconformance is documented and addressed through the quality process rather than informally between individuals.
Content is reviewed with the relevant clinical, nursing, materials or administrative department before publication.