According to the latest reports, Northwell Health, a New York-based healthcare group has signed up into IBM Blockchain – Rapid Supplier Connect network, which is a cloud-based application powered by DLT. The network is specifically aimed to help small businesses connect with buyers of coronavirus relief supplies. It will provide Rapid Supplier Connect for free to qualifying suppliers.
Northwell Health Group that comprises 800 hospitals, has partnered with IBM’s Rapid Supplier Connect network. Northwell health vice president and chief procurement officer, Phyllis McCready explained the reason for the partnership in an interview with Forbes.
She said, “Northwell Health has had adequate supplies to protect patients and our staff during the increase in New York COVID-19 patient cases. It is through creating our own group purchasing organizations (GPOs) and supply chain, and joining forces with non-traditional suppliers that we have maintained an adequate stockpile of personal protection equipment (PPE) and other equipment and supplies, so we are pleased to join IBM Rapid Supplier Connect.”
BIG NEWS! Today we are announcing #IBM Rapid Supplier Connect, a #blockchain network designed to help #government agencies and #healthcare organizations identify new, non-traditional suppliers. Learn more: https://t.co/W0YUp5MXb8 pic.twitter.com/WyiCIsctUm
— IBM Blockchain (@IBMBlockchain) April 27, 2020
Also Read: Here’s How the Crypto Industry is Helping Fight the COVID Pandemic
IBM’s blockchain wing has dedicated the Rapid Supplier Connect to help suppliers providing emergency goods related to COVID relief. The platform works on both ends of the spectrum – sellers and buyers. While it provides digital identity services to optimize supplier vetting, and offer emergency supplier onboarding, it also allows the buyers to access seller information as well as product listings.
Apart from Northwell Health, IBM is also looking to partner with the Supply Chain Federation, which houses over 200 U.S-based members.
