A DOSE OF INNOVATION CURES SUPPLY CHAIN AILMENTS
average of 30 minutes per shift—that they previously spent searching for essential supplies. The numbers speak volumes: In addition to 100% real-time visibility and inventory control, the 3PL and its hospital network now achieve 99.75% inventory accuracy, a 99.7% ll rate, and 99% on-time delivery. Although the CSC distribution model isn’t the universal answer for all patient-centric supply chains, the principles behind it are sound. Large, integrated health systems bene t most from a full CSC approach, while smaller systems may adapt a hub-and-spoke or hybrid model. What matters most is aligning the supply chain with clinical needs: centralization where it creates value, visibility at every node, and work ows that prioritize patient readiness. As Brinkerhoff notes: “The goal isn’t one size ts all; it’s t for care.” SPECIAL DELIVERY The importance of temperature- controlled networks, rst- and last-mile specialty courier coverage, and integrated solutions recently led logistics provider DHL Group to acquire 100% of CRYOPDP, a New Jersey-based specialty courier focused on clinical trials, biopharma, and cell and gene therapies.
CRYOPDP’s white-glove courier expertise in cryogenic, refrigerated, and ambient transport strengthens DHL’s ability to manage highly complex, precision-sensitive shipments. “DHL’s service has been particularly helpful in biopharma and clinical trials segments,” says Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA). The acquisition aligns with DHL’s commitment to invest approximately $2.7 billion over the next ve years to help its healthcare customers grow, innovate, and serve patients more effectively worldwide. The logistics provider recognizes that pharmaceutical, biopharma, and medical customers require agile, connected logistics solutions that extend beyond traditional service lines. “We’ve expanded our geographic coverage and responsiveness,” says Venter, pointing to 39 additional depots and 400+ skilled professionals that are
The fully integrated, customized solution has given the hospital network 100% inventory control and real- time, end-to-end visibility across its supply chain. “It has brought real-time transparency across every touchpoint— where a shipment is, what it costs to move, and how it’s being used,” says Brinkerhoff. Ryder originally built versions of the CSC model in sectors such as retail and automotive where precision and predictability are essential. Applying the solution to healthcare, however, required major adaptation. In the healthcare sector, supply chain solutions require a different mindset: less about product movement and more about patient impact. “In healthcare, we don’t just move boxes—we support healing,” says Brinkerhoff. Some adjustments the 3PL had to make include aligning deliveries with patient care schedules, supporting unit- dose level accuracy, integrating with clinical inventory systems, and factoring in cold chain needs. “It’s not about how we deliver but more about the sequencing,” explains Brinkerhoff. The goal is to enable nurses, doctors, and other clinical staff to be able to spend more time with patients. Since the CSC model is built for end- to-end performance and patient-centered logistics, clinicians gain back time—an
now part of DHL’s network. This scale, combined with
CRYOPDP’s shared commitment to quality and compliance, enables safe, seamless delivery from production site to patient—on time and in perfect condition, he adds. DHL has built one of the most advanced cold chain infrastructures in the world, designed to meet the exacting standards of the life sciences and healthcare sector. The company’s multi- temperature pharma hubs now span key global regions. The provider’s eet includes newly commissioned temperature-controlled vehicles and depots offering validated solutions across a full temperature range: 2-8°C, 15-25°C, -20°C, -70°C, and as cold as -150°C, all to support therapies with highly speci c handling requirements. Ryder Supply Chain Solutions manages this 416,000-sq. ft. consolidated services center to handle medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and supplies for a Midwestern hospital network. Its customized solution gives the healthcare network 100% inventory control and real-time, end-to-end visibility.
128 Inbound Logistics • July 2025
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