Analysing the Influence of Supplier Selection Criteria on Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Performance at UTH

Abstract

This study aims to assess the influence of supplier selection criteria on the pharmaceutical supply chain performance at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia. The study employed a cross-sectional research design using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected from 171 respondents drawn from a target population of 300 procurement officers, department heads, doctors, and suppliers, using purposive sampling. Results indicate that sole sourcing dominates supplier selection at UTH, with limited competition, and that quality assurance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness are the most critical supplier selection factors. Findings also reveal low supplier responsiveness, underutilization of risk assessment tools, and minimal adoption of Electronic Government Procurement (EGP). The study concludes that inefficiencies in supplier selection contribute to procurement delays and impact pharmaceutical supply chain performance. It recommends adopting competitive selection frameworks, improving supplier relationship management, integrating risk assessment tools, enhancing training in EGP systems, and balancing cost with quality and reliability. These interventions would enhance procurement efficiency and ensure a consistent pharmaceutical supply chain at UTH. Keywords: Supplier selection, supply chain performance, procurement efficiency, quality assurance, risk management, electronic government procurement (EGP)