SUPPLY CHAIN
Supply chain is a complicated discipline that typically requires highly-trained engineers to oversee the entire process , but pharmaceutical ( pharma ) supply chains take complexity to another level .
As well as the usual litany of supply challenges , pharma has a cold chain element for vaccines and other temperaturecontrolled medicines , and , because the field of medicine is just about the most regulated sector there is , it also faces the perils of frequent product recalls and compliance issues .
Then , of course , there ’ s the added pressure of how catastrophic any delays might prove , with the medicines being shipped critical for either ensuring patients maintain their health or keeping them alive .
Pharma supply chains begin with the sourcing of raw materials – chemicals and ingredients – used to manufacture drugs . The manufacturing process involves several stages : formulation , quality control , packaging and labelling . Once the drugs are ready , they are shipped to warehouses or distribution centres , from where they are distributed to healthcare providers , pharmacies , and hospitals .
The supply chain is also responsible for ensuring products are stored at the right temperature and humidity , and with tracking shipments to prevent counterfeiting and diversion .
44 July 2023