| Sub-title | |
| Author | Gaetana Carabott |
| Abstract | Every day ward staff from most hospital departments visit the Pharmacy Store in order to replenish sterile solution stocks. This indicates that such wards fall short of stocks almost daily, whilst others accumulate goods. Such heavy stocks are carried manually over long distances by staff specifically trained in patient care. This leads to a waste of time and scarce human resource. Aim: To establish the best alternative, evidence based, cost effective hospital logistical system for sterile solutions. Methodology: Three different methods were used in the study. I. A survey was performed to assess customer views of the present service, pitfalls in the system, and acceptability of alternative methods. II. The researcher performed on-site observations in order to gather information about ward storage areas and stocks kept. III. A comparative exercise with various hospitals abroad was done to assess best practices for the service. Results: There was poor customer satisfaction for the present service (27%). Time presently spent by ward personnel on stock control processes amounts to 205.61 hours per week. There was insufficient stock rotation in 91% of wards and expired goods were found in 33 wards out of 45. 78% of local internal customers suggested the adoption of a top-up system provided by pharmacy staff. This system is used in 14 out of 20 foreign hospitals responding. Out of these 14 hospitals, no changes to other systems were envisaged in 12 institutions. Labour costs can be decreased by LM 13,299.52 annually with the adoption of an alternative system. Recommendations: In order to attain cost-effectiveness and quality assurance objectives, the following changes are recommended: I. Introduction of an appropriate Information Technology system. II. Procurement of standard storage equipment for wards and mechanised equipment for delivery. III. Establishment of ward stock lists with par levels. IV. Implementation of a Top-up system provided by pharmacy staff. V. Training of staff involved in the service VI. Regular evaluation of new service. Conclusion: Great improvements in service quality can be gained by the adoption of an appropriate alternative system. This will result in a decrease in operational costs involved and in better use of scarce resources. Additional benefits include: meeting internal customer needs proactively and increasing patient safety. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | |
| Volume | |
| Pages | - |
| Date | |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | Cost-Effective, Storage, Sterile Solutions, Health Services Management, Thesis |