Information Flow Management and the Effectiveness of the Supply Chain of Essential Medicines in the Public Sector. Evidence from Selected Public Hospitals in Uganda: A Downward Perspective

John Charles Okiria, R. Mwirumubi, K.A Mpaata

Abstract: This study assessed the relationship between the Information flow management in the public hospitals and the effectiveness of the downward supply chain of essential medicines in the selected 6 public hospitals in Uganda. A cross sectional descriptive and analytical survey was done with both qualitative and quantitative data collected. Two hospitals were regional referral and the four were general hospitals. The major findings of the study were that, sharing planning information, distribution schedules, knowledge of each other stock levels and new demand were statistically significant in influencing the downward supply chain effectiveness. Improved sharing of information that is accurate, timely and complete, development of computerized medicines management systems in the hospitals, Collaborative procurement planning at all levels, Improvement in records and record keeping and enhancement of online communication between the hospitals and the suppliers was significantly influencing the effectiveness of the supply chain

Keywords: Inventory, supply chain, Information flow, medicines, effectiveness