Methodology Article
Conceptual Framework of Pharmaceutical Distribution in Cameroon
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 3, June 2026
Pages:
29-34
Received:
28 June 2026
Accepted:
11 July 2026
Published:
28 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijpc.20261203.11
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Abstract: Introduction: While the health status of the global population is certainly influenced by a wide range of factors such as economic, social and political conditions it also depends heavily on the availability of pharmaceutical products. With this in mind, we undertook this study to examine the health product distribution system, from the point of entry into the country to the "last mile" of the supply chain. Methodology: This was an analytical and evaluative study involving all stakeholders within the healthcare system hierarchy, spanning the 10 regions of Cameroon who are involved in the logistics management of medicine supplies and service delivery to the population; the study was conducted over a 14-month period from January 10, 2021, to March 30, 2022. The objective was to evaluate the medicine security chain in Cameroon by conducting a situational analysis of medicine supply logistics management and an analysis of the strategy for population access to medicines, followed by a diagnosis of pharmaceutical distribution challenges and, finally, the development of an appropriate distribution strategy. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire designed based on the Logistics System Assessment Tool (LSAT) and guidelines for assessing health systems and their essential functions. The collected data were analyzed using several quality management tools, namely Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis, the 5M method, the Pareto principle and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis). Results: This analysis highlights several strengths and weaknesses of the distribution system, the root causes of the various challenges encountered, and certain risks identified within the proposed improvement processes. While the population has easy access to health facilities, dissatisfaction with medicine prices persists, driving people to turn to street vendors and traditional healers. Seventeen major problems were identified, including several high-impact causes. The proposed models similar to the National Medicines Supply System (NMSS) offer advantages but also reveal structural and organizational shortcomings. Conclusion: This conceptual framework highlights the shortcomings of the pharmaceutical logistics system in Cameroon and proposes an innovative, tailored distribution strategy. This approach aims to strengthen medicine security, improve accessibility and contribute to increasing the population's life expectancy.
Abstract: Introduction: While the health status of the global population is certainly influenced by a wide range of factors such as economic, social and political conditions it also depends heavily on the availability of pharmaceutical products. With this in mind, we undertook this study to examine the health product distribution system, from the point of en...
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,
Essi Marie Jose
