E-DRUG: Logistics training in the African context
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[In response to Sarita's message on the expired drugs issue]
Sarita, we think that you have hit on an excellent idea. It is our
experience in several countries in the SADC region that outside of the
purely professional aspects of pharmacy that very little attention has been afforded the logistical aspects linked to getting drugs (medicines) to the patient.
There is a desperate need for pharmacy professionals and technical support
staff to receive training in the aspects that you have listed for the
curriculum.
It is our experience that computer systems, whatever their level of
sophistication, are only as good as the personnel using them. We have found
that there are people with an excellent theoretical knowledge with access to
various computer systems but the missing element is the marrying up of the
theoretical knowledge to the practical use of the computer tool.
From our experience as Medical Logistics consultants there is one aspect
that we think you could introduce to reinforce what looks like an excellent
course. During the practical phases of your training the principle of the
trainee / apprentice being under the wing of a fully trained and experienced
mentor would ensure that skills transfer could take place. In the absence
of trained mentors you could set up a schedule of practical activities to be
performed in the workplace by apprentices with supervisory and evaluation
visits by Mauritius Institute of Health academic staff.
From your e-drug article "Certificate Course For Pharmacy Store" it would
appear that there is a heavy bias towards hospital pharmacy store personnel.
What are you planning for State Warehouse personnel and does the "pharmacy
procurement practice including procurement of narcotics" training include
international tendering and the formulation and management of contracts?
We miss any reference to pre-qualification of suppliers and feel that a
medical logistician should know the principles pertaining to this subject
even if the activity is performed by a central registration authority.
We have found that the principle of in-country, on-site training by trainers
with regional knowledge is better suited to this environment than training
presented in distant countries. Relating pure theory to the practical work
environment back at home can be a problem and sustaining the enthusiasm
generated on such a course is difficult.
We would love to share our experiences with you or any other interested body
in the developing world. Please contact us directly.
Regards
Marita and Tony
Mushonga Logistics Consultants, South Africa
Landline +27 12 653 6398
Tony Odendaal Cell +27 83 274 1519 tony@mushonga.co.za
Marita van Rooyen Cell +27 82 324 3847 mariet@mushonga.co.za