Quality monitoring
It is important to understand the role of quality monitoring in ensuring an efficient and effective logistics system. In the logistics cycle, notice how quality monitoring appears between each activity of the logistics cycle. Quality monitoring refers not only to the quality of the product, but also to the quality of the work.
Quality monitoring appears four times in the logistics cycle:
Between Product Selection and Quantification & Procurement. Quality monitoring plays an important role in quantifying and procuring the right products, based on the appropriate product selection and use. Products that are quantified should be on the national essential medicines list (EML), be approved and registered for use in the country, and be included in appropriate standard treatment guidelines (STGs). Also, service providers must be trained to correctly use the products before they are procured and distributed to facilities.
Between Quantification & Procurement and Inventory Management. Procurement decisions should be based on the supply plan that is developed during quantification. To ensure product quality, procurement documents must include detailed product and packaging specifications, and the expectations for quality at the time of receipt. After procurement, program managers must check the quality of health commodities before they enter the distribution system. Products that are procured should be quickly cleared through customs, or other inspections, before being distributed to facilities.