Assessment of Inventory Management Practices on the Performance of Public Hospital in Mwanza Region

Abstract

This study focuses on evaluating the impact of inventory management practices on the performance of public hospitals in Tanzania, with a specific case study conducted at Sekou Toure Regional Hospital in Mwanza Region. The research utilized both quantitative and qualitative techniques, including interviews, questionnaires, and secondary data analysis, involving 109 staff members. The findings revealed that qualifications were a primary criterion for assessing the competence of employees in procurement and inventory control at public hospitals in Tanzania. Knowledge, skills, and competency followed closely as essential factors. Additionally, safety stock policies emerged as a key inventory management strategy, crucial for maintaining inventory levels and preventing stockouts, with replenishment and inventory review policies also in use. In the context of pharmaceutical storage, safety and security practices were identified as paramount in ensuring the effectiveness of storage conditions in public hospitals, followed by considerations for handling facilities and storage areas. The correlation analysis reveals that all the variables (effectiveness of inventory management practices, Staff Competency, inventory management policies and effectiveness of storage conditions of pharmaceutical) are positively correlated with each other. It is recommended that continuous training for staff to improve their inventory management skills, investments in modern inventory systems to enhance efficiency, and the adoption of technology like bar code scanners and web-based tools. Furthermore, to improve their inventory control strategies, establishing formal internal inventory security procedures is advised to prevent inventory loss and ensure inventory security, encompassing practices such as stocktaking, regular inspections, adherence to procurement policies, and vigilant surveillance of inventory handlers.