Effectiveness of Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) in Improving the Availability of Essential Medicines and Medical Supplies in Public Hospitals in Zambia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The availability of essential medicines and medical supplies is crucial for effectively delivering healthcare services. In Zambia, the Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) is a key tool for managing the supply chain of these commodities. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LMIS in ensuring the availability of essential medicines and medical supplies in public hospitals in the Copperbelt Province of Zambia. Materials and Methods: From February to April 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted in 12 public hospitals across the Copperbelt Province. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, checklists, and stock control cards. The study assessed LMIS availability, training, and knowledge among pharmacy personnel, as well as data accuracy, product availability, and order fill rates. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Results: All surveyed hospitals had LMIS implemented and were using eLMIS as the primary LMIS. Only 47% and 48% of pharmacy personnel received training in eLMIS and Essential Medicines Logistics Improvement Program (EMLIP), respectively. Most personnel demonstrated good knowledge of LMIS, with 77.7% able to log in to eLMIS Facility Edition, 76.6% able to locate stock control cards in the system, and 78.7% able to perform transactions. However, data accuracy from physical and electronic records varied from 0% to 60%, and product availability ranged from 50% to 80%. Order fill rates from Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) were consistently below 30%. Discrepancies were observed between physical stock counts and eLMIS records. Conclusion: This study found that most hospitals in the Copperbelt Province of Zambia have implemented LMIS use. While LMIS implementation is high in the Copperbelt Province of Zambia, challenges such as low training levels, data inaccuracies, low product availability, and order fill rates persist. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, including capacity building, data quality improvement, supply chain coordination, and investment in infrastructure and human resources. Strengthening LMIS effectiveness is crucial for improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes in Zambia.