Challenges In Implementing Integrated Pharmaceutical Logistics System At Alert Hospital –Addis Ababa
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Date
2019-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Access and availability of essential pharmaceutical services play significant role in ensuring better
health for the population. Implementation of integrated pharmaceutical logistics systems (IPLS)
requires use of LMIS forms and records. The study aims at assessing challenges in IPLS
implementation at ALERT hospital.
The study used eight research questions that are answered as a result the study. In this study
descriptive type of research was used with mixed method approaches where qualitative and
quantitative data were collected in relation with challenges of implementing IPLS at hospital level
using structured questionnaires and different secondary records and documents. The collected data
were analyzed using descriptive statistics and secondary documents and records were also reviewed
and analyzed. Detailed results presented in this paper on key IPLS implementation indicators. This
study assessed challenges about the availability and use of quality LMIS formats and records. The
study explored barriers in human resources management including improving staff capacity, on how
to complete the forms and records and use technology. This study assessed the challenges related
with infrastructure, finance, and application of regulatory policies and procedures in IPLS
implementation. The study looked in to challenges associated with stock availability and storage
conditions of pharmaceutical commodities and supplies at ALERT hospital. Human resources found
to be one of the critical challenge in the IPLS implementation that include shortage of staff, lack of
training on pharmaceutical logistics, and there is no mechanism in place to address attrition and
enhance motivation. More efforts and resources should be geared towards addressing financial,
infrastructural and technology related challenges that affect IPLS implementation. ALERT hospital
still using paper based LMIS and pharmaceutical logistics efforts are not yet linked with health
information management system that captures and reports services data. More attention should be
given to improve LIMS data use and its quality. It was also found that the management of the
hospital should address infrastructural issues around the store rooms including renovations and
expansion
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Keywords
pharmaceutical logistics, implementation, challenges,, technology, infrastructure