Distribution Strategies and Performance of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the extent to which strategies adopted by Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) seem to be ineffective as health facilities do not receive the Medical Supplies on time and the orders received do not match the demanded quantities. The specific objectives were to identify the medical distribution strategies adopted by KEMSA; and to determine the impact of the distribution strategies adopted on the performance of KEMSA. The study employed descriptive case study design. Data was collected by use questionnaires and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. The study established that KEMSA adopted three strategies that included pull strategy, push strategy and a mixed strategy comprising of both push and pull elements. The study also established general improvement in application of pull strategy. The study established that push strategy was applied in 2011 and 2012 and not applied thereafter. On mixed strategy comprising of some push and pull elements, the study established that there was fluctuation in the trends between 2011 and 2015. The study found that there was improvement in performance of the institution from 2011 to 2015. On impact of the strategies on performance, the study established that that there was strong correlation between both pull and push strategies and performance. The findings, however, indicated weak correlation between pull strategy and performance as well as push strategy and performance. The study also established that all strategies employed are important factors influencing KEMSA performance but at varying degrees where mixed strategy of both push and pull contributed most to the performance followed by pull strategy then push strategy. In view of the findings, the study concluded that while KEMSA has adopted three distribution strategies, the pull strategy is most applied and push remained relevant despite not being applied. The study also concludes that while pull strategy is most applied, the performance of KEMSA is largely affected by application of combination of both push and pull strategies. However, while the performance of KEMSA is largely determined by combination of both push and pull strategies, it remains fair and there is opportunity for improvement in the distribution of pharmaceuticals and equipment. It is with these findings that the study recommended re-application of push strategy. The study also recommended for KEMSA to address the challenges that reduce efficiency and effectiveness in each of the strategy applied.