In a healthcare industry where innovation and compassion intersect, true progress is rooted in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). A large health system in the Boston Metro area is redefining what it means to champion these values. With the support of HWL, the organization’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) program is not just a checkbox; it’s an impactful initiative that integrates diverse suppliers into the very fabric of operations, driving forward a new era of inclusivity in healthcare.
What is the DBE Program?
Central to this commitment is the DBE program, which focuses on integrating Diverse Business Enterprises—suppliers from various diversity categories, including woman-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, and more—into the health system’s supply chain. These businesses are crucial not only for meeting diversity spend targets but also for enriching the supplier ecosystem with unique perspectives and capabilities that can drive innovation and improve patient care.
Despite the clear benefits, integrating DBE suppliers into a large healthcare organization is not without challenges. Operational limitations, diverse regulatory frameworks, and the need for specialized support can make the process complex. Recognizing these obstacles, HWL provides tailored support, training, and strategic coordination to ensure DBE suppliers are effectively integrated and positioned for long-term success.
To streamline integration, HWL collaborated with the health system to develop a formalized qualification process for DBE suppliers. This included comprehensive surveys and certification guidance to accelerate their entry into healthcare staffing operations.
Key Strategic Measures for Enhancing the DBE Program
To address integration challenges and maximize impact, HWL implemented several strategic measures:
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Data Tracking: Regular reporting tracks DBE versus non-DBE submissions and fill rates to ensure transparency and accountability in supplier diversity efforts.
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Competitive Edge: DBE suppliers receive early access to job postings, helping them compete effectively and improve operational agility.
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Performance Evaluations: DBE suppliers are reviewed against established benchmarks to ensure consistent quality, compliance, and performance.
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Continuous Improvement: HWL maintains open communication with DBE suppliers to identify opportunities for alignment, growth, and enhanced collaboration.
Success Through Partnership: Surpassing DEI Goals
HWL’s strategic guidance and data-driven approach have been instrumental in helping the health system exceed its diversity spend goals. The collaboration not only meets operational needs but also moves the organization’s DEI initiatives forward through meaningful supplier engagement.
Kelsey Carlton, Account Manager at HWL, shared, “I am proud to highlight the success and growth of this DBE program. In just a short time, it has significantly expanded, creating more opportunities and support for a growing number of diverse businesses. This progress is a testament to the hard work and shared commitment to inclusion in both healthcare and business.”
As a result of this partnership, the health system achieved a 29.4% DBE spend—surpassing its 22% target for the year. This milestone reflects the effectiveness of HWL’s workforce solutions in building a more inclusive and resilient healthcare supply chain.
Advancing DEI Through Supplier Diversity
HWL is proud to support healthcare organizations in advancing their DEI goals by integrating diverse suppliers into the workforce ecosystem. Through tailored workforce strategies and ongoing partnership, HWL empowers health systems to meet operational objectives while driving sustainable, inclusive growth.
For more information on how HWL can support your supplier diversity efforts, contact our team today.