CombineNet says the partners will commercialize a computerized sourcing model called Expressive Commerce, which directly connects suppliers of pharmaceuticals and medical/surgical equipment with healthcare providers to allow for more efficient negotiations.

In the inaugural Expressive Commerce event, starting in late January, UPMC and two other medical centers are expected to use the system to purchase more than $1 billion in medical supplies.

Chuck Bogosta, managing director of UPMC’S office of strategic business initiatives, said, As a leader and innovator in health care, UPMC is constantly evaluating technologies and practices that bring excellence to our clinical and administrative operations. Our joint venture with CombineNet is a key part of our strategy to modernize the healthcare supply chain, cut costs and, most importantly, deliver better care to our patients.