Universal Recall Platform Alliance centralizes supply disruption communications, calls for members

Editor's Note

Medical recall software developer Notisphere is spearheading a collaborative effort among healthcare organizations to address inefficiencies with the recall alert communication process, reduce burdens on providers, speed regulatory compliance achievement by suppliers, and enhance patient safety.

As noted in the company’s March 29 announcement, the Universal Recall Platform Alliance (URPA), the new venture makes good on an open letter to the medical device industry drafted by six major hospitals and health systems advocating for a central platform to communicate about recalls. “URPA invites all healthcare organizations to join and advance the industry toward a more streamlined recall management process,” the announcement says.

“The current processes are fragmented, outdated, and inefficient, and that puts patients at risk while also placing undue burden on healthcare workers. This is evidenced by how hard hospital staff works to keep patients safe and the fact that we still find recalled products on hospital shelves,” said SxanPro Founder and CEO Ashlea Souffrou. “Until we land on a better way to get recalled products off the shelves, patient safety will remain vulnerable.”

“We are asking that manufacturers and distributors modernize recall procedures without delay,” said Kermit CEO and Cofounder Richard D. Palarea. “Our alliance and the open letter to the industry signify unwavering dedication to enhancing patient safety and setting new industry benchmarks. We invite all like-minded industry stakeholders to join this crucial movement.”

The alliance aims to replace paper-based systems and what the company refers to as “fragmented” online portals with a unified platform offering a “single point of communication for all updates and alerts.” The expectation is that immediate, reliable access to recall information and supply chain updates will reduce risks to patients and providers alike.