Tomorrow's materiel management executive today

As materiel management executives in today's market, the challenges of not only operating effectively but with fewer resources is a reality that has no end in sight. The role of the materiel executive in hospitals is moving from supply manager to resource consultant. This may be quite appealing to many of us; however, not all are prepared to assume these responsibilities. As a result, we find ourselves overwhelmed with information and examples of case studies from different facilities describing how they are resolving their individual issues. Reactions to these changes are met in different ways, ranging from marveling at others' imaginations to fear from not understanding how to commit to these radical new processes. Is there a proper way or a mold to use? I suggest not.