A Regional Review of Flexible Endoscope Service Delivery Models and Preventive Maintenance Practices

Abstract

While the literature surrounding flexible endoscopes predominantly focuses on disinfection and sterilization processes, there is a notable lack of guidance on managing these devices beyond reprocessing. This paper examines the broader role of the Biomedical Engineering (BME) Department in managing flexible endoscopes throughout their lifecycle. A regional review of service delivery models and preventive maintenance (PM) practices was conducted across 24 healthcare sites in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. Using work order data extracted from the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), along with insights from site visits and interviews with BME technologists, Medical Device Reprocessing Department (MDRD) staff, and clinical teams, the study revealed crucial yet inconsistent BME involvement, variations in PM practices, gaps in data tracking, and communication barriers between departments. These findings highlight the need for clearer processes and guidance from a clinical engineering perspective. Practical recommendations are provided to address these gaps, focusing on standardizing workflows and defining the roles where BME provides the most value in flexible endoscope management.