Frequently Asked Questions

How to Purchase Goods & Services the UMMS Way

Review the Frequently Asked Questions below and contact Supply Chain Customer Service for additional information (410-328-3184).

• What are examples of the types of goods and services that Supply Chain manages?
  
  Supply Chain manages the full spectrum of purchases necessary to support hospitals. Types of purchases can include:
  • Medical and surgical products and devices (Ex: implantable defibrillators, catheters, knee joints, Band-Aids)
  • Services (ex: equipment maintenance contracts, laundry service)
  • Office furniture and supplies
  • Computer equipment (link to IT site)
  • Clinical medical equipment (Ex: patient monitors, CT scanners)

• Who can be approved to purchase goods and services?
  
  A department manager or cost center owner must approve which employees can be trained to purchase goods and services. A VP must approve the account request form for purchasing requests.

• How do I get approved to purchase goods and services?
  • After obtaining approval from a cost center manager, employees should complete the Account Request Form (hyperlink to HEMM/HEFM PDF). A Vice President’s signature is required.
  • Participate in HEMM training provided by Supply Chain Operations trainer.

• How do I add/change items in the Item Table?
  
  Email itemtablerequest@umm.edu with the proposed addition or change request and to obtain access for ADD REQUEST submissions.

• How do I request help using the Enterprise Resource Planning tools (HEMM)?
  
  For help using the Enterprise Resource Planning tools, contact Supply Chain Customer Service at 410-328-3184.

• What are the computer-based programs I need to use to purchase goods and services?
  
  Horizon Enterprise Materials Management (HEMM) – materials management information system. This system can be used to automate or facilitate functions such as purchasing, accounting, inventory management.

• How long does the process take – from entering the requisition to obtaining the purchase order?
  
  The process should take roughly 24 hours from requisition to purchase order. 

• How do I find out what my cost center number is? 
  
  Your cost center manager should have the cost center number on their yearly business plan.