Supply chains can be adapted to be responsive to people’s needs and preferences. Applying an equity lens to addressing supply chain barriers can help ensure health products are (1) conveniently accessible to all; (2) available when needed; and (3) potent at the point of delivery.
As urbanization and conflict have shifted population needs, it is critical for supply chains, as part of the health system, to adapt to reach people who are currently at risk of being left behind. Often, product supply chains are designed to optimize overall cost and efficiency, or are built around administrative health system structures, so are not nimble enough to address the needs of under-served people.
We have developed a guide and accompanying resources to promote equitable health product access through supply chain design for under-served populations.