In the fast-paced world of healthcare, an efficient and resilient supply chain for health commodities is a critical factor in saving lives and ensuring community well-being. This training course provides a comprehensive framework for professionals to master the art and science of managing the flow of essential medical supplies, from procurement to patient delivery. By understanding strategic planning, operational best practices, and the integration of technology, participants will gain the skills needed to build robust and responsive supply chains that can withstand modern challenges.

This program is designed to move beyond theoretical models, offering practical insights into forecasting demand, optimizing inventory, ensuring cold chain integrity, and mitigating risks. Through a blend of proven methodologies and innovative approaches, you will learn to enhance system transparency, reduce waste, and improve access to vital medicines and supplies. The ultimate goal is to empower you to create a supply chain that is not just efficient, but a reliable pillar of public health.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Supply chain managers in health organizations
• Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
• Public health and immunization program officers
• Procurement and logistics specialists
• Warehouse managers and inventory controllers
• Government officials in health ministries
• Humanitarian aid and NGO personnel
• Senior healthcare administrators
• Health system planners and analysts
• Quality assurance officers

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles of a resilient health supply chain.
• Develop accurate demand forecasts for essential health commodities.
• Implement best practices for procurement and strategic sourcing.
• Master inventory and warehouse management techniques.
• Ensure the integrity of the cold chain for temperature-sensitive products.
• Utilize health supply chain information systems effectively.
• Analyze performance data to drive continuous improvement.
• Mitigate risks and ensure continuity of supply during emergencies.
• Develop a strategic plan for a sustainable supply chain.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Health Supply Chains

• The critical role of the supply chain in public health.
• The structure and flow of a typical health supply chain.
• Key stakeholders and their roles in the system.
• Ethical considerations and good governance in supply chain management.
• The link between supply chain performance and patient outcomes.

Module 2: Procurement and Strategic Sourcing

• Defining commodity needs and creating specifications.
• Sourcing strategies and supplier selection.
• Developing and managing supplier relationships.
• Principles of effective contract management.
• The tendering process and procurement ethics.

Module 3: Inventory and Warehouse Management

• The role of inventory in the supply chain.
• Inventory control methods and techniques.
• Principles of efficient warehouse design and layout.
• Storage and handling of different types of health commodities.
• Conducting stock takes and managing inventory accuracy.

Module 4: Transportation and Distribution

• Transport planning and route optimization.
• Selecting appropriate transport modes and carriers.
• Last-mile delivery strategies in challenging environments.
• Reverse logistics for product recalls and returns.
• The use of digital tools for tracking and tracing shipments.

Module 5: Quality Assurance and Cold Chain Management

• Quality assurance standards for health commodities.
• The importance of the cold chain for temperature-sensitive products.
• Monitoring temperature and handling excursions.
• Best practices for cold storage and transportation.
• Risk mitigation for maintaining product integrity.

Module 6: Supply Chain Information Systems

• An overview of health supply chain software systems.
• Using data for decision-making and forecasting.
• The role of traceability and serialization in the supply chain.
• Integrating different systems for seamless operations.
• Data security and confidentiality in health logistics.

Module 7: Performance Monitoring and Risk Mitigation

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chains.
• Tools and methods for performance analysis.
• Identifying and assessing supply chain risks.
• Developing a risk management and contingency plan.
• Fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.