Research Publication 2025110001
PHARMACEUTICAL SUPPLY CHAIN PRACTICE IN PUBLICHOSPITALS IN SIDAMA REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA
Background: A well-functioning pharmaceutical supply chain management (PSCM) system is the backbone of effective healthcare delivery. Hence, understanding and optimizing PSCM practices, including forecasting, procurement, and inventory management, is critical for ensuring effective healthcare delivery. The aim of this study was to assess the pharmaceutical supply chain management practices at Public health facilities in Sidama Regional State, Ethiopia.Method and Materials: An institution-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from September 30, 2024, to October 30, 2024, in 20 public hospitals in the Sidama Region. Kobo tool was used to collect the data from the study participants using self-administered questionnaire. Data collected underwent a rigorous cleaning and validation process before being exported to SPSS version 26 for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics including frequency distributions, means with standard deviations (SD), and percentages was computed. The findings are presented using charts, figures, statistical tables, and textual descriptions.Results: The study found that the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management (PSCM) practices in Sidama Region's public health facilities demonstrate both strengths and key areas for improvement. Some of the strengths are: Strong emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across multiple areas: supplier relationships, procurement, inventory, storage, post-procurement, and monitoring & evaluation. Good performance in core inventory management practices: MIN/MAX systems and ABC/VEN analysis. However, the weaknesses identified are as follows: Significant limitations exist across several domains: procurement, inventory management, information technology, storage, and postprocurement services.Conclusion: The assessment reveals a generally positive picture of PSCM practices, particularly in areas like standardization, SOP development, and core inventory management principles. However, significant challenges related to budget constraints, human resources, management support, and capacity building are hindering optimal performance. Addressing these challenges, especially budget allocation, is crucial for strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain in the region.Keywords: PSCM, Public Health Facilities, Ethiopia
Seyoum Kebede