Effect of Information Flow Management on Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Performance: A Health Professionals' Perspective in Public Health Facilities, Central Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia"

Abstract

Effective information flow management is crucial in the pharmaceutical supply chain, as it ensures the availability of essential medicines, timely delivery of healthcare products, fosters strong partnerships, reduces uncertainties and inventory costs, improves order fulfillment rates, and enhances customer satisfaction. Despite its importance, there is a lack of studies examining the impact of information flow management on pharmaceutical supply chain performance. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effect of information flow management on pharmaceutical supply chain performance from the perspectives of healthcare professionals in selected public health facilities in the Central Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Methods: A facility-based descriptive and explanatory mixed study was conducted with 289 health professionals in the Central Gondar Zone from July 19 to August 30, 2024. Participants were selected using simple random sampling techniques. Self-administeredstructured questions and open-ended key informant interview questions were used to gather data. EPI-info, SPSS version 27, and Open Code version 4.03 were used for data analysis. Coefficients (β) were interpreted with a 95% confidence interval, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 289 questionnaires were disseminated across 14 health facilities, with 286 completed, yielding a response rate of 99%. About 238(83.6%) of respondents disagreed with the presence of accurate data flow and real-time communication in their health facilities. Accurate data flow, coordination, and real-time communication had a positive effect on pharmaceutical supply chain performance [β: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.14–0.31, p = 0.04]. The findings revealed that information used for decision-making [β: 0.164, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.24, p =0.03] directly and positively influences supply chain performance. Conclusions:The study findings demonstrated that the use of data management software, internet access, and information used for decision-making, accurate data flow, and real-time communication positively enhances the overall effectiveness of supply chain performance. Therefore, healthcare facilities are expected to provide accurate, relevant, timely, and highquality information for their customers