Digitalization and the Medical Supply Chain Management: Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Author(s):

  • Brian Hiatt1 (G. Brint Ryan College of Business, University of North Texas, Denton, USA)
  • Seock-Jin Hong1 (G. Brint Ryan College of Business, University of North Texas, Denton, USA)
  • Ik-Whan Kwon1 (Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, USA)
  • Michael Savoie1 (G. Brint Ryan College of Business, University of North Texas, Denton, USA)

Abstract:
This study uses a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis to examine the current medical supply chain issues. The goal is to identify past trends and research gaps, focusing on lowering costs, improving efficiency, and eliminating drug shortages or oversupplies through digitalization. This study employs a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis to identify key terms in medical supply chain academic research, analyzing 51 out of 904 articles from 2,160 publications. Past medical supply chain research has primarily focused on logistics, inventory, and cost management. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the complexity of the medical supply chain, highlighting the need for reverse logistics and sustainability while digitalization improves connectivity and resource management. Blockchain technologies are revolutionizing supply chains, improving visibility, reducing costs, enhancing patient satisfaction, and facilitating integrated healthcare systems.

Download full PDF Get metrics Rate article