PracticeWell is a nationwide, multi-discipline community of doctors, administrators and physician office personnel dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes and delivery. The organization develops programs for time-saving initiatives, cost-effective operations, and knowledge sharing for its membership of medical practices of all sizes.

Founded as Pediatric Federation in 1991 in the San Fransisco Bay area, PracticeWell started as 16 pediatricians sharing best practices and pulling together to pursue more favorable pricing on vaccines as healthcare shifted into managed care.  The following year, the coalition became the first vaccine group purchasing organization (GPO) in the state for private physicians, establishing its leadership in vaccine purchasing and contract negotiations.

“This community was created by physicians running their own practices,” said Kathy Chebib, administrator at PracticeWell, “We not only understand, but we’ve also experienced the challenges facing individual practices in an industry that is constantly evolving. And, we have found how effective combining as a national voice can be.”

Recognizing that its influence and purchasing model could benefit a broader medical community, the coalition re-branded as PracticeWell in 2017 and became a benefit corporation – legally etching the creation of positive impact on society and environment into its mission and continuing no-cost membership.

Over the last 30+ years, the community has grown to more than 15,000 physicians and healthcare professionals around the country.  As PracticeWell expanded its reach and grew its list of member benefit categories, the group leaned further into its partnership with Medline.

“Our sole purpose is to provide methods, services, and ideas to make the operation of practices better,” said Chebib, “Patient health and quality care are at the apex of our goals. And, we know we have a partner in Medline that is equally committed to helping providers improve efficiencies and deliver high-quality care.”

PracticeWell and Medline have developed custom programs that offer physicians access to Medline’s comprehensive portfolio of medical supplies, devices and equipment, textiles, as well as other clinical and IT solutions.   Team members are also continuously reviewing program core items and member purchases to ensure consistency and ease of ordering.

“PracticeWell and Medline collaboratively help with member conversations about item standardization, ordering optimization, promotional savings, and other additional programs,” said Chebib. “Practices appreciate Medline’s consistent pricing methods as well as how effectively Medline communicates with them about PracticeWell-Medline programs.”

Chebib sees a tremendous opportunity to do more to support physicians in today’s dynamic healthcare environment.  The two organizations are exploring expansion of the current program to include clinical education and training through Medline University, instrument recycling and re-processing, expanded laboratory testing and equipment, Scrubs and other benefit categories.  They are also beginning work on a tailored, efficient, and cost-effective program for remote diagnostic monitoring through Medline at-home.

“We started as a physician community and we’ve remained a ‘community’ – not a business,” said Chebib.  “Our philosophy since the beginning is based on helping doctors and practices focus on what matters most – their patients. Medline understands exactly who we are, they listen and they help us work towards our mission.”

Learn how Medline tailors solutions across the entire continuum of care as a manufacturer and distributor by visiting www.medline.com.