Supply chain management in health services: an overview

TLDR

The study investigates whether parallels exist between industrial supply‑chain developments and health‑care services, summarizing lessons from the special issue and outlining future research directions. An exploratory qualitative review of existing literature and case studies from the special issue was conducted to assess the current state of supply‑chain management in health services. Five key research areas were identified, and the authors argue that interdisciplinary approaches are essential, thereby advancing both supply‑chain and health‑care management literature and aiding practitioners and scholars.

Abstract

Purpose This paper seeks to concentrate on the question whether any parallels can be found between the industrial sector and health care services with respect to the developments that have taken place in the area of Supply Chain Management. Starting from an analysis of existing literature, it is intended that different modes of Supply Chain integration will be discussed. Also, in doing so, it is intended that the lessons learned from the studies presented in this special issue will be summarized and placed into the perspective of future research that can be considered as necessary. Design/methodology/approach This paper adopted an exploratory, qualitative approach based on an analysis of existing literature in the area of Supply Chain Management in Health Services. Additionally, material from the case studies presented in this special issue is used to assess the current body of knowledge regarding Supply Chain Management in Health Services. Findings Starting from a classification of existing research, five main research areas with respect to Supply Chain Management in a health care setting are defined. Additionally, it is concluded that next to studies with a mono‐disciplinary focus, an interdisciplinary focus on Supply Chain Management issues in health services seems to be necessary. Originality/value This paper contributes to both the supply chain management literature and literature in the area of healthcare management by identifying some important research areas which are linked to both fields. This paper helps both academics and managers to gain a better understanding of the complexity of supply chain management in health services.