Websites and Short Films

This week I have been impressed with the design and utility of Web sites. At the hospital we needed less expensive emergency room supplies than what was usually ordered. Since the hospital is almost broke, the administrator wanted a better price on slings, syringes, and injectibles. From www.mooremedical.com and www.clint.com I found good values for bulk supplies. Both Web sites were easy to navigate, had multiple links for other supplies, and had consistent branding. Each page had company logos and used the same color and font.
 
Thirty years ago, the hospital’s purchasing agent would be in his truck checking supplies from drug stores and warehouses. Now he turns on the computer, logs in, types the URL, and has a world of suppliers from which to make a purchase with the best value. When he purchased a new X-Ray Processor, he was able to evaluate several models on Web sites before making selections for the radiologist to consider. Well designed Web sites make purchasing equipment and supplies easier than before.
 
Twenty five years ago the hospital purchased a GE X-Ray Processor. Though the company mailed a huge binder and a short film with the processor specifications, it took weeks to send the binder to the processing agent and radiology department to share the same information that can now be e-mailed within seconds, thanks to the Websites, email, and the Internet. Because it required a projector, it was more challenging to watch the short film. Since there is a computer at every desk, it is easy to share hospital information with anyone who has a need to know by logging on. Websites have made the job of purchasing agent easier.

 

I see the value of short films as an education tool to explain procedures to patients. If I plan an arthroscopic procedure I will explain it then give a patient the short film to review at home as many times as needed.
 
When the hospital ordered a G.E. X-Ray Processor, the company sent a short film to demonstrate its good features. The entire staff met in the library to view the short film which demonstrated many new and innovative features. It will be archived in the library should anyone else need to see it before a purchase decision can be made. Though cumbersome, short films have always fascinated me.
 
When the radiologist planned to purchase a BMW, he received several short films which used famous actors. There were exciting plots involving high speed chases to demonstrate BMW’s maneuverability. Many healthcare providers watched them several time. They were of high quality and were clever. There is a resurgence of short films for the consumer who needs more than a sound bite to make a decision on a high involvement purchase such as a vehicle.