Vendor Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What contracts does the Health Council offer?
A: Currently, there are approximately 50 group purchasing contracts offered through the Council, including food service, materials management, and human resources contracts. All hospital and affiliate Council members are eligible to participate in committed and non-committed contracts.
Q: What are committed and non-committed contracts?
A: In key areas where dollar expenditures are high and performance levels critical, Council members and vendors prefer our committed contract process. Members participate by committing their volume for best results. Vendors awarded the contract then benefit from receiving committed volume upfront, as well as growth down the road. For example, our bread contract began with 20 committed members and today boasts more than 130 member facilities. Non-committed contracts are negotiated in areas that don’t meet the criteria above but are still important to members. Vendors still benefit from marketing efforts and support of the Council.
Q: How does the Health Council award contracts?
A: Council members are the driving force behind the Council’s group purchasing contracts; contracts are secured based upon their direction. Those niche areas deemed advantageous for group purchasing are presented to members for their input. The Council performs market evaluations, then distributes Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to potential vendors, compiles the submitted proposals, and presents the results to members. Contract awards are determined by Council members.
Q: How can my company take advantage of opportunities to get connected with Council members?
A: There are many opportunities for companies to connect with Council members. Our Solutions series, a targeted series of educational and networking events, offers both sponsorship and exhibit opportunities. Also, companies who become Associate Members have the opportunity to meet with top health professionals and learn about timely health care events and issues affecting the Greater Cincinnati community.
For more information about the Council’s contracts, please contact Amy Ewing or Maurie Hanauer.