Performance metrics in the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain (PSC)

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a concept that is gaining popularity and importance. There is little confirmation if SCM is particularly important and what role it plays in organisations working with each other. This dissertation looks at if medication shortages be reduced through the following questions: •Which metrics are used in the supply chain management of pharmaceutical supply chain? In addition, how effective or efficient are they? •What relevant information metrics is taking place in the supply chain management of the pharmaceutical chain? Furthermore can it be analysed qualitative and quantitatively? •What are the enablers and inhibitors in this process The unit of analysis for this research includes pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmaceutical wholesalers and pharmacy; it looks at a comprehensive analysis of the pharmaceutical supply chain. Potentially functioning with shared performance measures across the supply chain if this could lead to an improvement in the supply of medicines in the UK. The research involves a qualitative approach and provides a comprehensive detailed interpretation. Data is collected through interviewing; both small and large pharmaceutical wholesalers are investigated, as each can add value to the study. The conclusion ascertains a number of supply chain performance measures in the pharmaceutical supply chain. It presents a pharmaceutical supply chain performance metrics. The next stage would be to see if the model could be implemented across the pharmaceutical industry; if the industry would be willing to work collaboratively and share the information with their suppliers and customers to improve the supply of medicines. The limitation of the study is the willingness for the suppliers to share information as it potentially a barrier as the level of information they are willing to share maybe pertinent to their own business in order for them to have power over the supply chain