VGM CPAP Program Debuts
Fulfillment program aims to offer CPAP providers turnkey order processing and shipping.
- By David Kopf
- Apr 29, 2010
The VGM Group has officially unveiled its CPAP Fulfillment program, which is designed to help providers save staff time and reduce inventory, while ensuring that CPAP patients receive masks, tubing, head gear, filters and other equipment in a timely fashion.
VGM has slowly ramped up the program during the past year to ensure that it functions as it is supposed to, and now, “a number of companies are on board,” said Jeremy Stolz, director of VGM Fulfillment.
The fully developed service includes a new software program that handles all elements of the fulfillment process, from electronic file transfer for ordering, to bar coding, and printing shipping labels that reflect the provider’s (not VGM’s) return address enables VGM Associates to pick, pack and ship orders quickly and efficiently. In addition, a company may choose to include a personalized newsletter in the package.
“The system has many checks in place to ensure order accuracy,” Stolz added.
VGM has remodeled its warehouse to accommodate the fulfillment program, as well. Tall shelves hold bright yellow coded bins that contain the various pieces of equipment from ResMed, Respironics and Fisher Paykel that a CPAP patient might require.
Orders are shipped from Waterloo, Iowa, via primary carriers FedEx and the U.S. Postal System. Most orders arrive at patients’ doors within three business days or less.
VGM Members pay their contracted price for equipment, and are billed monthly for shipping and handling charges.
Patient re-orders are received via medSage, a secure online order form or electronic file transfer.
“An HME dealer who is providing CPAPs must have an efficient process in place to secure supply orders,” says Bob Hoffman, director of Nationwide Respiratory, VGM’s alliance for respiratory providers. “Timely follow-up insures patient compliance and provides a consistent revenue stream to the provider.”
About the Author
David Kopf is the Editor of HME Business.