Assessement of Supply Chain Management in Hospitals: A Case Study of Greater Accra Regional Hospital – Ridge

Abstract

This research is a qualitative assessment of the Supply Chain Management of Non drug Consumables at Greater Accra Regional Hospital-Ridge. It was aimed at identifying operations of Supply Chain in Ridge Hospital, examining the effects of Supply Chain Management operations on healthcare delivery and how the flow of information can prevent stock out situations. A case study design was employed to gather in-depth data from Supply Chain Management Practitioners in the hospital. Purposive Sampling Technique was used and sixteen respondents were selected for the study. Interviews were used to gather data with an interview guide. The data collected were analysed using the objectives of the study as the main themes. In discussing the analysis, inferences were made to the literature. It was found that operational factors of SCM at Ridge Hospital include procurement process, requisitions of goods and payment of suppliers. The study also revealed that factors such as shortages, non involvement of departmental heads in the demand forecasting process, ad hoc purchases and delayed supply of goods have effects on healthcare delivery. It was also found that an integrated approach to SCM has not been adopted by the facility making documentation and other processes cumbersome. It was also found that non integration of SCM process slows down documentation process and hence delays in supplies. The findings further indicated that payment of suppliers is often delayed as a result of delays in National Health Insurance Scheme reimbursement.