Glove solution elevates aged care services for Ultimate Care Group

New Zealand-owned Ultimate Care Group is committed to providing the highest quality standards in aged care. With plans to expand its 19 facilities, the organisation continually seeks innovative solutions to enhance resident wellbeing and safety. 

A commitment to quality Care 

Ben Ray, Commercial Manager at Ultimate Care Group, believes the urgent need for quality care spearheads the demand for aged services nationwide.

"We recognise how essential it is to partner with suppliers who streamline our operations and align with our values for residents, from independent living to 24/7 hospital support." 

Challenges in supply 

The Group faced challenges with its medical suppliers post-COVID, particularly the availability of personal protective equipment like gloves, aprons, and shoe covers.  

"We needed more from our suppliers—uninterrupted supply, rapid delivery, and reliable service," says Ben. "Gloves consistently worn by staff are critical for patient safety, so we had to reassess our options." 

Partnering for success with Unipak 

After issuing a request for proposals, Ultimate Care Group chose Unipak and its Bastion range of products. It benefits from a tailored, fit-for-purpose solution and national distribution.  

"Unipak's expertise gave us confidence in addressing glove shortages while enhancing our safety protocols and ordering processes." 

Impact on Care Quality 

Since partnering with Unipak, the quality of nitrile gloves has surpassed previous standards.  

"The international certifications provide us peace of mind, and the dispensing system positively impacts infection prevention among our residents," Ben notes. "Bastion products have played an essential role in controlling infectious outbreaks as part of an integrated platform helping to reduce the number and severity these."

What began as a glove partnership has expanded to include protective hats, boots, aprons, wipes, rubbish bags, and even vinyl gloves for kitchen use.  

"Having one reliable supplier instead of a mix has streamlined our operations. Unipak's monthly reporting and analysis help me monitor ordering efficiencies."

Streamlined ordering process 

The partnership has minimised errors and waste through an efficient account setup. Facilities can easily order via email, phone, or online, with pre-approved quality products and pricing.  

Ultimate Care Group can use Unipak's generous free shipping and same-day dispatch by ordering ten cartons or more. 

Looking ahead 

As regulations and innovations in personal protection evolve, Ultimate Care Group is committed to staying competitive in serving New Zealand's ageing population.  

"We'll rely on our Unipak account manager, Peter, to inform us of new developments," Ben says. 

"Peter has provided invaluable technical education to enhance our infection control protocols. His guidance helped staff set up and dispense the gloves and use them correctly to avoid cross-contamination. We look forward to more of this as we journey together," he concludes.