Risks in Cold Chain Operations in Healthcare Logistics and Applicable Technological Solutions

Abstract

Millions of tons of temperature-sensitive products are handled by leveraging the cold chain logistics from the point of production to the point of consumption. Cold chain, an important sub-branch of logistics, is a field which allows for the maintenance of the right quality throughout the supply chain and entails special expertise and precision for its management. The operational process becomes increasingly important in delivering products to consumers without any break in the cold chain. The pharmaceutical industry, which places human health at the forefront, includes specific products that require the cold chain logistics process, and entails special equipment and skilled staff to maintain the quality and effectiveness of such products without any break in the logistics process. Considering from the manufacturer's perspective, a potential break in the chain means loss of revenue and reputation, in other words, customer loss. The study is intended to determine the major risks that may arise in all processes related to drugs (insulins, vaccines, etc.) from the raw material to the consumer within the cold chain management, and to suggest technological and practical solutions to mitigate any potential risks and improve the existing conditions. To provide an understanding of storage conditions, particularly of solutions both at retail and customer levels, a survey was conducted with pharmacists and solution suggestions were presented with the descriptive findings assessed.