An examination of pharmaceutical supply chain for artemisinin-based combination therapies in Ghana

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine the pharmaceutical supply chain for artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT) in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach - This study employed an inductive approach in examining the dynamics of the pharmaceutical supply chain. The study also used analytical hierarchical process in identifying factors that are detrimental to the ACT supply chain. Findings - The study revealed that there are basically two main supply channels through which ACT enters the Ghanaian pharmaceutical system - private and public. The ACT network depicts a strong evidence of actor interdependence and long-term relationships. However, the key supply chain enabler - the use of information technology - was found to be lacking, leading to delays and disruptions in the supply chain system. Disruption was found to be the main detrimental factor to the supply chain although delay was found to be occurring more frequently. Price increases indicated a low effect on the supply network at the pharmacy level, but the general price of the highly subsidised effective ACT (Coartem) remains very high. Research limitations/implications - Owing to constraints in accessibility, it was challenging to contact all the actors in the network individually, especially the consumer. Drugs considered in the study were the WHO approved ACT, even though efforts were made to compile available anti-malarial drugs on the market. Practical implications - This study has provided insights into the supply chain for ACT. The findings of the study are relevant in improving the supply chain system. Originality/value - The paper brings to the fore the need for a proper pharmaceutical supply chain management in the health sector with regards to one of the world's most infectious and deadly diseases - malaria.