Guidelines for the Hospital’s interactions with vendors of supplies, pharmaceuticals, equipment and services. These guidelines are intended to encourage disclosure and discussion and to provide guidance for decision making. Employees and medical staff must disclose to and receive prior approval from their Functional Unit Administrator or Director for vendor-related activities.
We are committed to honest business dealings with our vendors, and we strive to develop mutually advantageous relationships. In conducting business with vendors, employees and medical staff are also expected to act fairly and objectively and in the best interest of the Hospital. Our selection of vendors will be based on quality, price, and services offered, which make them competitive with other suppliers.
Gifts
Employees and medical staff may not accept gifts or gratuities from suppliers, with the exception of novelties of nominal value. Gifts received which are unacceptable according to this policy, should be returned to the donors or donated to an appropriate charity.
Entertainment
Employees and medical staff may not accept primarily social entertainment offered or sponsored by vendors. Entertainment with vendors must be for valid business purposes and must benefit the Hospital. Entertainment is not construed to mean a business meal or function that is directly related to business. The business meal or entertainment functions should be unsolicited and proportional to the related business activity.
Samples of Goods and Services
Samples of goods and services may be accepted only for purposes of evaluation and must be procured in accordance with Hospital policy. Free samples for patient use, when permitted by Hospital policy, may be dispensed only with a disclaimer regarding hospital endorsement. Pharmaceutical samples, in accordance with Hospital policy, are prohibited from being distributed for patient use.
Consulting and Research Activities
Participation in consulting and research activities with vendors shall be in accordance with Hospital policy (to be developed).
Vendor Sponsorship
Vendor sponsorship of travel, educational conference and seminars must be valid business purposes and must benefit the Hospital. Travel expenses paid by vendors, if any, must be proportional to the business activity that will occur during the trip.
Confidentiality of Business Matters
Official business matters such as price negotiations and contractual arrangements are considered to be confidential. Employees and staff should exercise discretion when discussing price negotiations and contractual arrangements.
