Factors Affecting the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Medicine plays a crucial role in societal health, and even minor disruptions in the supply chain can lead to crises. An organized supply chain ensures that patients receive their medications in the best possible conditions. Objectives: This study aims to identify and categorize key variables associated with the pharmaceutical supply chain. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of all studies on drug supply chain management, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. The search was carried out in both international and national databases from January 30, 2000, to March 30, 2023. We used specific keywords related to the drug supply chain for this search. We excluded articles, letters to the editor, and editorials from the review and ultimately qualitatively examined 34 studies. The quality of these articles was assessed using the CASP checklist. Results: We identified key variables and classified them into five categories: monitoring and control (16 variables), information technology and intelligence (4 variables), human capital (10 variables), physical and financial resources (16 variables), and suppliers (4 variables). Conclusions: It is imperative for health policymakers to develop effective strategies in monitoring and control, information technology and intelligence, human capital, physical and financial resources, and management of drug suppliers. These strategies are essential for the efficient supply and distribution of drugs within the supply chain.