IMPROVING COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS FOR MEDICAL SUPPLIES OF THAILAND
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60101/gbafr.2025.279157Keywords:
Cold chain transportation, Medical supply chain, OptimizationAbstract
Purpose – This study aims to improve cold chain transportation management for medical supplies in Thailand by identifying the key factors that influence operational efficiency and the preservation of product quality.
Methodology – A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative data from 200 structured questionnaire responses with qualitative insights obtained through semi-structured interviews with 10 industry experts. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA via SPSS, while thematic content analysis was used for the qualitative data.
Results – The findings reveal that inadequate equipment maintenance and poor communication with suppliers significantly reduce the reliability of cold chain systems. Furthermore, deficiencies in emergency response protocols and inconsistent cost-efficiency strategies contribute to systemic inefficiencies.
Implications – The results provide actionable insights for healthcare logistics stakeholders in Thailand, emphasizing the need for standardized maintenance practices, stronger supplier collaboration, and the adoption of cost-effective logistics strategies to enhance cold chain performance.
Originality/Value – This research offers a comprehensive and practical analysis of Thailand’s medical cold chain logistics using a mixed-methods approach. It addresses a critical gap in the existing literature and provides a foundation for future improvements and studies in the field.
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