Abstract:
ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to identify Physical Distribution and Medical Supplies challenges by the Medical Supplies Department as from 2010 – 2015 in Tanzania. Data were analyze by using content analysis technique which is the most desirable in this study, the data were presented in form of table, graph and pie chart by using statistical software and later on explanation was done in words to give clear interpretation of findings. This study recognizes the fact that Population of Tanzania has been growing an average of 3.5% annually from 38.93 million in 2006 to 44.9 million in 2012. The increase in population has a direct impact in the supply of medicine, medical equipment and overall efficiency at the health care system, lead to the increases challenges on physical distribution and medical supply such as inadequate forecasting, insufficient funds, delays in funding disbursements and long lead times, Non-availability or insufficient quantities of essential drugs; Unreliable services; Over-invoicing; Delays due to unnecessarily long procedures or long waiting chains; High prices compared to other sources of supplies; and Delivery delays o medical supply. It is recommended that, In order to overcome the problems, the following challenges should be addressed: Implement national medicine and medical supplies quantification program. Maintain working relationships with PPRA and other regulatory authorities for streamlining procurement of medicines and medical supplies. Strengthen MSD-Suppliers relationship management, Improve internal and external communication and share reports on new or changing developments in health sector. Fleet Requirements & Management: MSD needs to reassess their optimal fleet requirements (e.g. motorbikes). Build/Upgrade Dispensaries (Funding). Information Technology (Project) should be improved this will increase visibility and improve ordering at zone and DSP level. There is a need for an inventory management course (course material available), especially at district level. MSD requires additional warehouse space at all levels of the supply chain, especially at district level. However, due to the complexity of MSD’s inventory management, in is unclear how MSD can assist in this area. It is important to note that a further assessment is required.
