Transforming Healthcare: Discover How UF Health Successfully Built an Offsite SPD for Lasting Impact

At the upcoming 2025 Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Annual Conference, Sarah Vinson, MBA, CRCST, from UF Health in Gainesville, Florida, will share insights on creating successful offsite reprocessing centers. Along with Brian Reid from UNC Health, she will discuss strategies from their experience in adapting to the needs of a growing healthcare system. This year’s conference takes place in Louisville, Kentucky, from April 27 to 29.

Vinson’s session aims to guide attendees on the planning and execution of reprocessing centers outside traditional hospital settings. This topic is especially relevant as many health systems expand beyond their current infrastructures. While she stresses the importance of facility design, Vinson also believes that careful preparation is crucial. This includes cleaning data, managing inventory, planning staff, and optimizing workflows.

"There’s a common misconception that off-site centers will always save money or simplify staffing," Vinson notes. "In reality, outcomes vary based on the specific system and scale."

The shift toward centralized, off-site processing facilities has gained momentum over the past decade, with institutions like Vanderbilt paving the way. Many have since followed suit, eager to learn from these early pioneers. Vinson aims to provide valuable lessons from their experiences, especially for organizations considering off-site options.

Her insights are not just for those building new facilities. They also apply to teams looking to enhance current operations through internal renovations or redesigned workflows.

Additionally, Vinson’s presentation will tackle major industry challenges such as the ongoing staffing shortages, technological advancements, and the complex nature of surgical tools. By developing supportive centers, she and her team aim to equip sterile processing professionals with the resources they need for safe and efficient work.

Returning to Louisville, where she first attended the HSPA conference in 2011, feels nostalgic for Vinson. After over 20 years in this field, she’s excited to reconnect with peers, share practical solutions, and keep learning.

Her advice for attendees? “It’s essential to approach conferences with an open mind. It’s easy to think you have all the answers, but these events are opportunities to learn new skills and discover technologies you might not even know existed.”

The trend towards off-site facilities highlights a significant shift in healthcare operations. According to a recent report from the American Hospital Association, nearly 30% of hospitals are exploring strategies to expand outpatient services, showing the growing importance of facilities that can efficiently handle various healthcare needs.

For more insights, visit HSPA for updates on the conference and to find resources on sterile processing practices.

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