Meridian Medical Case Study

The Background

Meridian Medical Ltd, is an industry leading contract medical device manufacturer with extensive capabilities in clean room assembly, injection moulding and complete device project management. When faced with significant supply chain challenges for a key tubing component used in one of their highest volume products, Meridian Medical Medical approached MedNet for assistance.

The Challenge

The product in question, an intravenous connection set for pump-assisted drug administration, is subject to very specific procedural criteria. When selecting an alternative material, the functional properties of the original had to be carefully considered without neglecting patient comfort when using the finished product. Not only did the material have to meet the functional criteria, but it also had to be readily available to maintain the supply of this important device to patients.

Our Solution

Thanks to its extensive partner network, MedNet was able to source an alternative tubing component that met all the material requirements for the application . MedNet not only provided a high quality functional solution, but through its expert supply chain management was able to find a reliable source with acceptable lead and delivery times to ensure the supply of this important medical device. The new material is supplied in bundles with pieces evenly aligned and cut to the exact length required. This also allows the Meridian Medical team to eliminate a cutting operation in the manufacturing process and the new packaging simplifies the assembly of the tubes.

The Benefits for Meridian Medical

Not only was MedNet able to procure a suitable material with an acceptable lead time thanks to its numerous sources of supply, but we were also able to help optimize and simplify Meridian Medical's internal production processes: As the tubes were already cut to length, one internal production step was eliminated. With a customized assembly for Meridian Medical, we were able to create added value for a more efficient and convenient assembly process.

"We are very satisfied with the MedNet cooperation, not only did they solve the immediate problem of an alternative source but also added value to our inhouse processes. Having MedNet as partner with such a trustful network in the back option, we could benefit from the variety and disponibility of materials and components as well as the flexibility to make adaptions to current production processes. This partnership nearly means an added value for us and we have already forced in a previous project with them."

James Fenton, Managing Director Meridian Medical