Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management Performance Using Core Supply Chain Indicators among Public Health facilities in West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: Pharmaceutical supply chain management is a vital component in the healthcare system. To deliver appropriate healthcare services to patients, there should be sustainable availability of pharmaceuticals at the right time, at the right price, and in the right quantity. Several types of indicators are used to measure the performance of supply chain management in healthcare organizations. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of supply chain management in public health facilities found in West Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region. Methods: A multi-central facility-based, mixed-methods sequential explanatory study design was used. Data was collected From July 1, 2023, to September 20, 2023. Quantitative data were collected using a checklist. Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 25 were used to analyze the quantitative data. A descriptive statistical method was employed to analyze the findings of the study. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo version 11. Result: A total of 29 public health facilities were surveyed in this study, and the results showed that pharmaceutical selection, forecasting and supply planning, and availability of essential medicines were 79.30%, 72.40%, and 60.64%, respectively. Inventory accuracy rate was 70.06%, and stock levels between minimum and maximum were 37.41%. The wastage rate was 2.26%, and 55% of pharmaceuticals were procured below the average international price. Storage conditions, inventory turnover rate, and RRF reporting rate were 27.58%, 1.02, and 93.10%, respectively. However, the program and RDF Pharmaceuticals had average lead times of 16.95 and 4.04 days, respectively, which was a relatively good performance. Key informants explained that lack of training, shortage of manpower, unavailability of pharmaceuticals from suppliers, and procurement regulation of the government were among the major challenges for the implementation of the pharmaceutical supply chain management practices in