A study of supply chain management of tuberculosis commodities in Kenya
Date
2009-06
Authors
Masila, Chris W.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
Drug supply is an essential component of health care systems, accounting for 10-30% of
health care costs. Drugs can be expensive, and willingness to pilfer for drugs got from the
government system to go into the private secto r is high, creating the danger that
employees will divert drugs for re-packaging and sale in the black market, or for personal
use. Anti-Tuberculosis medication and commodities are critical in the life of a patient.
TB mortality is higher among HIV patients , those with MDR-TB, and those who fail to
complete treatment especially due to unava ilability of medicines. Increased numbers of
patients being cured at the end of treatment increases productivity of the Kenyan
economy including other benefits.
The study sought to evaluate the supply chain management of tuberculosis commodities
in Kenya. This was a descriptive research since it described a phenomenon. The
population comprised of the stakeholders in the supply chain management of TB
commodities in Kenya. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to gather
the data to be used to answer the research question. Qualitative techniques were
employed especially in areas of the research requiring opinion and description.
Quantitative techniques were applied mainly on relevant public data and secondary data
from previous surveys and statistics related to the research question i.e. supply chain
management ofTB commodities. In addition, questionnaires were issued in person when
necessary . Descriptive statistics; proportions and percentages were used to analyze the
demographic data collected.
From the findings , there is need to incorporate women in all areas of operations even in
the medical industry and a greater need to incorporate young people in employment
opportunities. Cost, number and type of items procured, together with Supply Chain
efficiency including warehousing and storage conditions were SCM indicators considered
to have a very large extent in usage as SCM Indicators for Tuberculosis Recipient. Thus
the researcher recommends an overall outlook on the Supply Chain Management process
Description
Dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Business Administration
Keywords
Supply chain management, Tuberculosis, Kenya