CMMS or EAM? Determining the Right Fit for Your Team

Efficient asset management is critical for delivering quality patient care in healthcare systems. Two primary tools for managing assets are Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM). While these systems may seem similar, understanding their unique functionalities is essential for optimizing performance and selecting the right fit for your organization (or identifying a solution that checks boxes from both!).

CMMS: Focused on Maintenance Efficiency

A CMMS is designed to manage the maintenance aspects of healthcare assets. In a hospital environment, where the functionality of medical equipment is vital, a CMMS ensures equipment is always operational and compliant with regulatory standards. Key functionalities include:

• Medical Equipment Maintenance: Ensures medical devices are functioning properly and meeting regulatory requirements.
• Work Order Management: Tracks preventive maintenance schedules and work orders to reduce downtime and enhance patient care.
• Regulatory Compliance: Provides systematic record-keeping and documentation to meet healthcare regulations.
• Materials Management: Manages spare parts and materials to prevent shortages and ensure availability.

EAM: Comprehensive Asset Lifecycle Management

EAM systems offer a broader approach, managing the entire lifecycle of healthcare assets from installation to end-of-life procedures. Key functionalities include:

• Lifecycle Management: Tracks asset performance and maintenance history to optimize lifespan.
• Budget Planning: Helps allocate budgets effectively by considering asset acquisition and maintenance costs.
• Risk Assessment: Assesses and mitigates risks associated with equipment failure to ensure quality patient care.

An All-in-One Solution for Healthcare Systems

For large healthcare systems, integrating the functionalities of both CMMS and EAM can be highly beneficial. A robust solution that blends maintenance management with asset lifecycle management offers several advantages:

• Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the need for two separate systems, reducing software expenses. 
• Centralized Data Management: Consolidates asset data with maintenance information for holistic analytics. 
• Enhanced Capabilities: Provides advanced data analytics, capital allocation tools, and continuous enhancements. 
• Improved Workflow: Streamlines asset management and work order tracking for increased productivity. 

FSI: The Best of Both Worlds

FSI’s CMMS suite of solutions combines the functionalities of CMMS and EAM, equipping healthcare systems with robust work order management, asset tracking, and financial planning tools. With features like Capital Planning, healthcare organizations can manage asset lifecycles and allocate resources efficiently.

“Every day, CMS tells us what to do,” says Courtney Haschke, Biomedical Supervisor at Baptist St. Anthony’s. “With every asset having a procedure attached, we generate reports monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually. Managing 10,000 assets with a team of 12 is challenging, but CMS keeps us on track.”

FSI not only helps manage assets but also enhances work order tracking. “I’m constantly running numbers and completion rates. Without opening a work order, I can see what’s completed, what’s in progress, or where we’re waiting on parts.”

Finding the Right Solution

Whether you choose a CMMS, an EAM, or a hybrid solution, identifying your organization’s priorities is the first step. Evaluating tools that align with your goals is key to enhancing operational efficiency and improving patient care.

If FSI sounds like the right fit for your organization, reach out to our team.