The healthcare sector, often focused on immediate patient care, is increasingly recognising the need for sustainability in its operations. While traditionally associated with clinical advancements and patient outcomes, a significant yet often overlooked component is building sustainable models that benefit both institutions and the environment. This includes optimising supply chains, efficient procurement practices, and adopting green infrastructure strategies.
Ashwini Mishra, a strong advocate for sustainable healthcare models, highlights the evolving role of procurement and supply chain management in creating a holistic healthcare delivery system. “Sustainability isn’t just about adopting energy-efficient systems; it’s about integrating long-lasting materials, optimising resources, and ensuring financial viability,” Mishra explained. His extensive experience with SOAL and other supply chain initiatives has made him instrumental in bringing efficiency and accessibility to healthcare systems.
Sustainability in healthcare doesn’t merely involve environmental considerations; it extends to resource planning, procurement, and cost-effective infrastructure design. Mishra elaborates, “Someone in an R&D setup must think about designing products that are energy-efficient and recyclable. Whether it’s reducing water usage or sourcing materials responsibly, all these factors make a huge difference in the long run.”
He added that institutions must balance patient benefits and financial feasibility. “Anything an institution spends money on must make financial sense. Dr Mahipal Sachdev rightly pointed out the futility of investing crores in a machine if there’s not enough patient demand to justify it.”
The ROI Debate: Beyond Short-Term Gains
The healthcare sector’s financial officers often seek immediate returns on investments, but Mishra emphasises the broader definition of ROI. “ROI may not always be financial. It could mean enhanced visibility for the organisation or being part of a progressive trend. Sometimes advanced technology doesn’t yield immediate returns but proves invaluable over time.”
Finding this balance requires careful consideration. “You need to weigh short-term financial improvements against long-term value. Robotics is a classic example — not every robotic solution makes immediate business sense, but they often pay off in the long run with efficiency and improved outcomes,” he added.
Decarbonisation & Climate Action
Climate change is becoming a pressing concern for healthcare facilities, particularly in northern India, where the effects are increasingly evident. Institutions that heavily rely on energy-intensive systems like air conditioning need to adopt decarbonisation strategies.
S. Srinivasan, a sustainability expert, highlighted this aspect, saying, “We may not see the depletion of the ozone layer directly, but we experience its effects through climate change. Every decision we make, whether it’s air conditioning systems or engineering solutions, must account for energy consumption and carbon emissions.”
The Road Ahead: Collaborative Efforts
Both experts stressed the need for collaborative efforts between supply chain professionals, procurement leaders, and sustainability advocates to create a healthcare system that prioritises both patient care and environmental responsibility. As Mishra aptly put it, “Sustainability must be baked into every decision, from procurement to infrastructure development. It’s not just about doing the right thing for the environment — it’s also about ensuring a viable and efficient healthcare system for generations to come.”
By adopting innovative strategies, healthcare institutions can navigate the complex landscape of sustainability while delivering quality care and creating a lasting impact.
