Inventory management and forecasting methods in the parish of St. Catherine, Jamaica

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out among different categories of government health professionals who are responsible for the forecasting of supplies to perform their duties. The study investigated some basic aspects of inventory management and forecasting practices. Fifteen public health nurses, 13 staff nurses, 8 pharmacists, 6 dentist and 5 supplies officers from 2 hospitals, 26 health centres and 12 satellite clinics answered a slf administered questionnaire. The results indicate that there are various inventory management and forecasting practices among those health workers. Knowledge and formal training in inventory management was low for some professionals. There was a lack of involvement in the budgetary process for the supplies. Taking into account the findings of this study, it is suggested that there is a need for the improvement of the inventory management and forcasting system including the revision of the VEN/drug list and to encourage the health professionals to adhere to the VEN/drug list (AU)