Public Health Supply Chain Management Course;13-17 April 2015, Nairobi Kenya

What is the course about?

This training will introduce you to managing the end-to-end supply chain as an integrated system, where each function works in tandem with the others to improve accountability through:

• Performance agreements;
• Specialisation and cost-savings in storage and distribution;
• Control without holding stock at each level, lower inventory levels, better use of storage capacity;
• One management system, reduced stock-outs and wastage;
• Alignment of storage and distribution capacity to national need;
• Transparency for partners and stakeholders and improved supply chain decision-making.

Supply chain excellence requires all of its functions working together. For example, decisions on product selection must inform decisions on distribution modes, frequency of delivery and storage specification. Similarly, rational use of pharmaceuticals is a critical determining factor for accurate quantification which, in turn, effects procurement planning. Any supply chain strategy must consider these interactions and the associated trade-offs that exist between alternative supply chains. It is important for everyone involved in supply chain management to have a demonstrable competence in each function.

Most training in supply chain is narrowly focused on specific activities, rather than the higher–order skills required by supply chain managers. Supply chain functions should not be considered as distinct, but, as facets of a single supply chain system.

Who should attend?

Pharmacists, other professionals with key roles in supply chain management, including those supported by national governments and international organisations. Participants will also include professionals with an interest increasing their knowledge skills as independent supply chain consultants.

Objectives

• To comprehend the  procedure and policy issues of product selection in the supply chain process;
• To understand the quantification of needs and pharmaceutical procurement principles (the rules, methods, selection of suppliers and award of contracts);
• To learn quality assurance and its management;
• To analyse and evaluate storage and supply management issues and policies.

Learning Outcomes

• A better understanding of the major principles and policies of product selection for pharmaceuticals;
• Forecasting of supply chain plans and quantification of orders;
• Comprehension of quality assurance and quality control policies and requirements;
• Interpretation of storage and supply management issues and policies;
• Recognition of a systematic approach to the assessment of the supply chain cycle , and the ability to identify bottlenecks and  suggest improvements;
• Confident use of the supply chain tools;
• Budgeting / finance management skills for supply chain. 

Course Content

• Introduction to the nature of medical supply chains in developing countries;
• Enabling environment: policies, legal frameworks, political, economic and social dynamics that influence the supply chain;
• Selection: review of health challenges, treatments and decisions concerning appropriate prescribing of drugs and dosage forms;
• Quantification: estimation of the quantities of drugs needed;
• Procurement: acquisition of supplies through purchase, donation or manufacture;
• Storage and distribution: holding and movement of materials;
• Rational use: dispensing of medications appropriate to clinical needs, in doses that meet patient requirements;
• Supporting infrastructure: systems that support supply chain management (e.g. information management, organisations, performance management systems);
• Quality assurance: activities intended to ensure that products meet quality specifications;
• Disposal of waste;
• Vehicle and assets management.

Email info@pamsteele.co.uk to register your interest in the course. Please acknowledge rubayawenger.blogspot.com