Public Health Supply Chain Performance of  tracer drugs across Primary Health Care Units, Gamo zone, SNNPR, Ethiopia

Abstract Background Health supply chain performance is a key to strengthening the health system. Thus, the current study aimed to assess the public health supply chain performance of tracer drugs across primary health care units in the Gamo zone, SNNPR, Ethiopia. Method A convergent parallel mixed-method was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 46 primary health care units between April 01 and May 30, 2021. A stratified simple random sampling method was employed. Logistics records and reports, service registers, physical observation, and interviews of key informants were sources of data. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency, and percentages were used to present a result. Qualitative data concerning public health supply chain challenges were collected from key informants by using a semi-structured interview guide. It was analyzed manually using an inductive thematic approach and the result was narrated. Results The study revealed that the public health supply chain performance of tracer drugs across primary health care units in the Gamo zone was low. Inventory management KPIs, LMIS report KPIs, and storage condition KPIs were below the national standard. Means of availability (64.8%±14.8%), stocked according to plan (16.5%±9.5%), inventory accuracy rate (65%±17.2%), and stock out rate (64.9%±9.8%) of tracer drugs deviate from ideal. Likewise, the means of LMIS report accuracy rate (64%± 13.6%) and LMIS report completeness (80%±15) are below the standard. Only 81% of assessed primary health care units adhere to good pharmaceutical storage practices. In general, public health supply chain performance of tracer drugs decreases down the levels of primary healthcare units. LMIS reported quality; pharmaceutical distribution; storage condition; low access to public transportation; lack of supply chain workforce training and motivation; low dedicated budgeting and finance for logistics activity; and low support from management were reported as prevailing challenges. Conclusion Inventory management, LMIS reporting, and storage practices are areas where gaps in public health program supply chain performance are identified. It leads to wastage and interruption of essential medicines, which affects the quality of healthcare delivery at each level of the primary healthcare units.