Effect of Vendor-Managed Inventory Practices on Stock Availability in the Healthcare Supply Chain
Business Administration — 2025, Undergraduate
This study examined the effect of vendor-managed inventory (VMI) practices on stock availability in the Nigerian healthcare supply chain. A survey was conducted with procurement officers and pharmacists in selected hospitals and health facilities. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings revealed that automated replenishment and shared demand information significantly reduced stockouts and improved availability of essential medicines. The study, however, found that data-sharing constraints and supplier capacity limited full deployment of VMI. It recommends strengthening supplier partnerships, improving demand forecasting, and investing in inventory management systems.