Inbound Logistics | July 2024

. OPERATIONAL AUTOMATION The supply chain is dealing with a challenging labor market. A nationwide shortage of an estimated 80,000-100,000 drivers persists, while 73% of warehouse operators are also having trouble nding labor. These broad challenges trickle down to the healthcare supply chain. “Pharmaceutical manufacturers in particular must rethink how they position facilities to get life-saving products to customers while navigating a strained carrier marketplace,” says McClatchy. Pharmaceutical and healthcare warehousers are rethinking locations, and more are moving facilities closer to their largest consumer markets. These

. NETWORK TRACKAND TRACE CAPABILITIES

impact our customers,” says McClatchy of Kenco. “As drugs reach a pharmacy, the serialization data on the label must match with data on the drug stored within their systems,” he says. “This will help cut down on fake or incorrect drugs moving through the supply chain, but it also adds a new layer of monitoring that manufacturers need to consider as they design and afx labels.” Compliance and security issues will continue to emerge, but technology providers in this space are helping shippers develop a solid base of implemented cargo quality-control technology that they can build upon.

Cloud-based track-and-trace networks allow healthcare professionals to monitor the ow of goods through the supply chain. These networks enable authorized personnel at any point in the chain to view the location, delivery time, and other critical details of shipments. Tracking also helps companies detect changes in shipments, such as failures in environmental controls that could compromise shipment quality. Track-and-trace systems provide comprehensive visibility to all parties involved in logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, and receiving. IoT devices, RFID readers, barcode and QR code scanners, cameras, environmental and security sensors, and smartphones enhance these systems. With these tools, healthcare supply chain participants can monitor shipment progress, ensure the safety of goods, and maintain the legal chain of custody. In the event of an environmental or contamination alert, personnel can quickly identify the point of origin and take immediate action to quarantine the affected shipment. CONTROL TECHNOLOGY Sensors and other IoT devices monitor and move healthcare supply chains forward and help ensure the quality of goods. However, these advances also require employee training and compliance adherence as new regulations take effect. Quality control technology has a human factor, too. “Teams must be trained to properly pick up, handle, and deliver supplies,” says Senpex’s . CARGO QUALITY Mammadov. “They also must be trained to ensure condentiality and security for the items being transported.” Healthcare companies must also stay abreast of new regulations impacting the supply chain. “We’re preparing for how enforcement of provisions within the Drug Supply Chain Security Act will

“ Teams mus be rained on how o properly pick up, handle, and deliver supplies. They also mus be rained on how o ensure confidenialiy and securiy for he iems

being ranspored. ” ANAR MAMMADOV, CEO, SENPEX

Strict handling and temperature-control procedures and frequently changing regulations challenge healthcare shippers. Partnering with experienced providers provides guidance.

148 Inbound Logistics • July 2024