EXPLORING EFFECTIVE AND CONTINUOUS PHARMACEUTICALS SUPPLY CHAIN SYSTEM FOR DEVELOPING SOUTH, A CASE OF ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Pharmaceuticals supply Chain Management seems global challenge due to several controllable, and uncontrollable factors, with higher magnitude in Global South.

Several studies and research have been promoting various strategies, which are sought to be solving these real problems. However, the effects of implementing these proposed actions seems invisible, if visible, are very minimal. Therefore, this study seeks to explore available pharmaceuticals supply chain systems and recommend effective alternative PSCM system which ensures continuity of service delivery for the foreseeable future.

The study area is selected purposively considering its size, geographic location, demographic and civilization status, level of development in infrastructure and technological literacy. The research employed survey, observation, and FGD as data collection method; extensive review of related materials, research works and, facilitated validation sessions to triangulate data for ensuring reliability and dependability. Statistical data were analysed horizontally and temporally on top of conducting situation analyses in the industry and selected study object: i.e., Ethiopian Pharmaceuticals Supply Service(EPSS), which is organized and structured to deliver medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, theoretically, to all public health facilities in the most populus African country from its 20 hubs and head quarter based in Addis Ababa, following right-based equitable planning as a public service delivery entity. Moreover, such entities are found to be used as market shaping tools by states.

Per the observation, level of development of these countries and global factors are responsible for such a vicious circle of challenges.

Thus, this study suggests that the challenges need to be detailed and addressed   systemically in a coordinated manner, by identifying bottle necks and de-bottlenecking them.

Based on this study, it is observed that there is adequate inherent potential to design and implement effective PSCM system that could last long while rendering the required level of service effectively. To this end, it is suggested that a well-designed, sufficiently independent, business oriented and yet state-owned, adequately resourced, clearly mandated, technologically leveraged, stakeholders-engaged, economically competent organ may be established for developing countries, to ensure sustainable, equitable and acceptable supply of health sector needed commodities, which includes but not limited to, Pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and medical equipment and related technologies. This study also would pave opportunities for systematic evaluation and selection of situationally aligned mode of PSCM system.