Implementation of a policy regulating relationships with vendors should be a part of every laboratory policy handbook. Before any evaluation or selection of vendors takes place, the importance of appropriate interactions (conduct or actions) must be stressed. Many institutions have a blanket policy covering these relationships. For example, the University of North Carolina Health Care System has posted one such policy online9:
Why would it be important to implement a policy regulating relationships with vendors?
- Defined, appropriate interactions with external entities allow the laboratory (or other institution) to function without the appearance of improper influence.
- Interests that may appear inappropriate are addressed so that the integrity of the laboratory is not adversely affected.
- Your institution may be required to disclose (publicly) certain relationships with vendors.
To whom would this policy apply?
- Laboratory administration, staff, trainees, students - basically, anyone on the payroll - must adhere to this policy.
- Job classification does not matter.
- Training for all personnel on the policy is vital to the success of the laboratory.
What this policy might encompass will be discussed later in the section discussing ethical considerations.
