AOAExcel® COVID-19 Resources

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Looking beyond the current nationwide shortage, AOA doctors are advised that AOAExcel's exclusive group purchasing organization (GPO) partner, Intalere, suggests AOA practices consider the following tips when vetting alternate PPE suppliers to avoid counterfeit product. Please note that this list is not all-inclusive and is meant to be used as a starting point for vetting potential suppliers and products.

• Review the terms of sale – In the supplier’s terms of sale, look for warranties, indemnification, limitation of liability, return policies and shipping and delivery terms. Red flags to look out for are:
  • Liability falling on the buyer.
  • Returns not permitted.
  • Lack of delivery lead times.
  • Upfront payment required, particularly if the buyer is not protected in the terms.
    
    
• Assess the manufacturer and product information – Check to make sure the manufacturer/product or product type is listed on the CDC or FDA website. Ask the following questions:
  • Where is the product held and who owns it? (The seller often acts as a broker).
  • Who is responsible for shipping the product?
  • Who holds onto the funds? How long have they been in business?
  • If the product is in storage, what is the expiration date?
  • What are the storage conditions?Can a photo of the inventory be provided?
    
    
• Assess the supplier or distributor – If a supplier or distributor is claiming to have a known manufacturer’s product, contact the manufacturer’s customer service to verify the supplier/distributor is an authorized reseller.
  
  
• Ask for a sample – Ask the supplier/distributor for a sample of the product prior to ordering so you can verify quality. 

To learn more about vetting alternate sources of PPE, read Intalere’s article.