Challenges of Pharmaceutical Supply Chain in a Developing Country: A Qualitative Study

Authors

Yaser Sarikhani
Peivand Bastani
Mahdiehsadat Ahmadzadeh
Hesam Dorosti
Jamal Abadi Sara

Abstract

Background: Pharmaceutical supply chain has a critical role in the procurement of medications, Iranian health‑care system encountered many challenges in this scope because of the national and international barriers. In this regard, this study aimed to determine challenges of the pharmaceutical supply chain in Shiraz, the largest southern metropolitan in Iran. Materials and Methods: In this qualitative study, we included 32 experts through purposeful sampling method. Data gathered using a semi‑structured interview and saturation level were achieved with these interviews. Thematic content analysis was used after data transcription. Related codes, subthemes, and themes were extracted applying MAXQDA 10. Findings: Seven main themes were achieved as the main challenges of Iranian pharmaceutical supply chain including pharmaceuticals financing, pharmaceutical information system, the pharmacists’ role, educational challenges, pharmaceutical cheating, insurance and reimbursement, and other issues. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, it is suggested that health‑care policymakers need to strengthen the infrastructures in the area of pharmaceutical supply chain. These infrastructures include developing public health insurance, improving information systems and electronic prescriptions and increased collaboration with university‑affiliated research centers.

DOI

10.56808/3027-7922.3049

Recommended Citation

Sarikhani, Yaser; Bastani, Peivand; Ahmadzadeh, Mahdiehsadat; Dorosti, Hesam; and Sara, Jamal Abadi (2025) "Challenges of Pharmaceutical Supply Chain in a Developing Country: A Qualitative Study," The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Vol. 43: Iss. 3, Article 9.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.56808/3027-7922.3049
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/tjps/vol43/iss3/9