IRSPP, in collaboration with Public Procurement Research Centre (PPRC), the University of Twente and Erasmus University Rotterdam, has been awarded a grant from the Dutch Science Foundation (ZonMw) to conduct an international comparative study into the procurement and supply of critical materials, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), tests and ventilators. The aim of this research is to learn from an international comparison of the different supply strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results are expected by the end of 2021. Webinars and preliminary insights will be available throughout 2021.

The research consists of three phases. The first phase (October 2020 till February 2021) encompasses a detailed description of the Dutch approach including over 50 semi-structured interviews. The study focuses on national level responses and on the activities undertaken by various institutions in the cure (hospitals) and care (including nursing homes) sector. The second phase (February 2021 till June 2021) involves the international part through IRSPP, where senior practitioners from 23 countries will be interviewed on their perspective of the national supply strategies. In the final phase (July 2021 till December 2021) the data from the various sources will be combined and analysed. This analysis provides an international comparison of different supply strategies, including lessons that can be learned for adequate preparation for a future healthcare crisis.

For enquiries about this project, please email admin@irspp.org