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Christmas 2020 will forever be remembered as difficult. In the rapidly moving second peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were all forced to rethink our usual traditions and put safety first.
Throughout this challenging time, the Smartway team continued to operate. Our work is 24/7/365 – and our commitment to our partners, practitioners and their patients is steadfast.
But what really stands out is the way our people were willing to go further and work harder to secure the best patient outcomes. With their attention and diligence, our team were able to deliver when it mattered.
Supplying a life-saving medicine
In late December 2020, we were contacted by an overseas company with a specific and urgent request. A young child in the UK with a rare condition urgently needed a life-saving medicine, which falls under the early access scheme. His father was desperate to get the medicine as soon as possible, with no delay caused by the pandemic or the holiday period. Despite their best efforts, other UK based suppliers had advised the overseas company that it was not possible to do it in time. Challenge accepted. Our team worked throughout the festive period to work on this vital patient need.
Liaising with the MHRA, our regulatory team obtained import permits and legal documentation to legally bring the medicine into the country under the early access scheme, navigating the new Brexit complications. We also collaborated closely with other stakeholders based globally in the US, Europe and China, which included our customer, the clinical research organisation, the manufacturer, specialist logistics providers and the NHS hospital to ensure that the patient received this critical medicine and treatment.
Together, we delivered. We ensured that the child could access the medicine he required.
A resilient supply chain built for speed
Our supply chain is built to move quickly without compromising on quality. Patient safety is of the utmost importance and our infrastructure is designed to preserve this at every stage, from manufacturer to patient.
At the same time, our patient-centric approach means we understand the need to prioritise resources, adapt to specific situations, and work with an agile mindset. It’s something we achieve through the combination of technology, processes and the diligence and enthusiasm of our people.
Above all, our team share a universal commitment to patients, wherever they are in the world, and are willing to do whatever it takes to deliver.
Applying our knowledge and expertise
At Smartway, our systems and processes are vital elements of how we deliver for patients. These are all areas that we have invested heavily throughout 2020 and will continue to do so. But they’re nothing without the drive and expertise of our people.
“This is a great example of how our team goes further and works harder. Our supply chain is robust and effective, but there’s no substitute for committed people, prioritising patients and proactively solving challenges. We are privileged to be able to have a place in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Every order presents an opportunity to make a difference. I couldn’t be happier with how our team rose to the occasion in difficult circumstances, ultimately helping this young child and his parents enjoy their Christmas.”
Dhruv Patel, Chief Operating Officer
