Optimizing the drug supply chain in hospitals: A mixed-method study in Iran
Sajjad Bahariniya, Ehsan Teymourzadeh, Mohammadkarim Bahadori, Mahdi Bagheri, Ali Tahernezhad, Gholamreza PoorheidariBACKGROUND:
The management of the drug supply chain (DSC) is crucial for the success of the healthcare system in ensuring the health of the population. This study aimed to examine the factors affecting the DSC in hospitals across Iran.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This mixed-methods study was conducted in 2024 at a large teaching hospital in Tehran. The study population included hospital administrators and healthcare professionals. The most important criterion for inclusion in the study was having sufficient knowledge and experience. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire of 28 items across five dimensions. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and AMOS software.
RESULTS:
A total of 200 individuals participated in the study. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated to be 0.830. The results of the CFA indicated that the model of the latent construct had a good fit (Fit indices: X2/DF = 1.250; RMSEA = 0.027; CFI = 0.98). The results of the second-order confirmatory factor analysis showed that the most important factors affecting the DSC are human capital, information technology and intelligence, and financial and physical resources.
CONCLUSION:
To enhance the efficiency of the DSC and improve health policies, it is essential to invest in targeted training programs for employees to strengthen their skills. Additionally, establishing a transparent database using information technologies, along with implementing warehouse management systems for optimal drug storage, can facilitate access to vital information and significantly improve access to medications.