CHHSM Store: Frequently Asked Questions

What is CHHSM Store?

CHHSM Store is a Group Purchasing Organization (GPO) available to all CHHSM Members in good standing offered in partnership with Care Purchasing Services, Inc. (CPSI). CPSI is a subsidiary of Life Care Services, Inc. that is based out of Delray Beach, Florida. They currently provide GPO services to over 600 institutions utilizing over 95 vendors across the United States.

What is the cost of CHHSM Store?

CHHSM Store is an optional program free to CHHSM Members. In most cases you may participate in CHHSM Store concurrently with another GPO, although some individual vendors may restrict your ability to use their products and services within multiple programs. However, the more volume CHHSM members generate for CHHSM Store vendors, the lower our group pricing will be.

What products and services does CHHSM Store include?

The list of vendors changes all the time but current offerings include almost every product and service your organization will need to conduct your business. A complete list of products and services with the appropriate vendor is attached. Some vendors (GE, Verizon, Home Depot & Sherwin Williams, Dell & many more) also pass their savings along to individuals which provides your Human Resources department a valuable employee benefit.

How do I know if CHHSM Store is right for my organization?

At your request, CHHSM and CPSI will conduct a cost savings analysis (CSA) to help you decide if CHHSM Store is right for you. The analysis will include a direct comparison of products and services you already use, formulary programs for dietary and medical supplies as well as other business needs. Complete the Store survey, send it to CPSI with one month's invoices and you will soon have your CSA.

What does the cost savings analysis entail?

The CSA is an apples to apples comparison of the products and services you already use where applicable). CPSI will work with you individually to establish formulary programs for dietary and medical supplies, as well as other supplies. On an ongoing basis, CPSI will audit vendor invoices and establish benchmarks for price control.

What kind of support services does CHHSM Store offer?

CPSI's goal is customer service. Rene Sharkey, Customer Service/ Business Development Specialist, is our CPSI liaison. Rene is available to assist you with any aspect of the CHHSM Store program. Each vendor is assigned to a CPSI staff associate to provide you with efficient price quotes, ordering options, contract negotiations and problem resolution. Additionally, CPSI will manage your manufacturer rebate program for you as part of the program. They will file for and collect all qualifying rebate allowance dollars for your organization.

What about CPSI vendors that I already use in another GPO?

CPSI's flexibility in managing vendor contracts is a critical part of their customer service. You may elect to maintain your relationship with that vendor in your current program or convert to the CPSI pricing. The cost savings analysis will inform you of the best choice for your ministry. CPSI will not convert your vendor relationship without your consent in the form of a "letter of designation".

What about the OfficeMax program with CHHSM?

OfficeMax is a part of our contract with CPSI for CHHSM Store. Due to the larger buying power with CPSI, OfficeMax pricing is now better than ever! If your ministry has previously signed up with OfficeMax, your current Username, Password and RetailConnect Card have already been converted to CHHSM Store.

Does CHHSM receive any fees for CHHSM Store?

Yes! Like most GPOs, CPSI receives a fee from vendors to participate in their buying group. CPSI will then pass a portion of those fees along to CHHSM: 33% of all GPO fees that CPSI receives for CHHSM member purchases on the first $10,000; 50% of all GPO fees that CPSI receives for CHHSM member purchases after that benchmark is reached.

How do I get started?

Rene Sharkey from CPSI (1-615-895-0942) will take you through the process step by step OR simply complete the CHHSM Store Survey and return it with one months invoices for the relevant products and services. CPSI will conduct the CSA and Rene will give you the results and consult with you accordingly. CPSI's contracts with their vendors are established on an annual basis and the pricing is not negotiable during the contract period. As such, Rene will advise you whether you should switch to the CPSI contract or remain with your current vendor contract. Michael Readinger, CHHSM Vice President for Business Services will be happy to hear any questions, comments or concerns that you may have. Call Mike at 216-736-2258.