Authors : Reaymond Rax Gomes; AKM Matiur Rahman; Akim M. Rahman

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/3724kj22

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26aug1570

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This study investigates the resilience of medicine supply chains in rural healthcare institutions in Bangladesh and identifies key barriers to the continuous availability of essential medicines. Major challenges include stock-outs, delayed deliveries, inadequate storage, limited transportation, weak stockholders’ coordination and disruptions caused by pandemics, natural disasters, and global supply interruptions. Using qualitative and quantitative data from patients, procurement managers, healthcare professionals, and rural healthcare institutions, this study evaluates supply chain performance through stock-out frequency, inventory turnover, lead time, and order fulfilment efficiency. Findings reveal that dependence on imported pharmaceuticals raw materials, fragmented distribution network and limited digital integration significantly undermine the supply chain resilience in Rural Bangladesh. However, supplier diversification, regional distribution centers, staff training, domestic pharmaceutical productions and digital inventory management can improve medicine availability and reduce these disruptions. Integrated resilience strategies demonstrate the greatest benefits including lower stock-out rates, improved forecasting, reduced waste rates and enhanced service continuity. The study recommends coordinated policy reforms, digital transformation, infrastructure investment, domestic production and stronger stakeholder collaboration for ensuring equitable & uninterrupted access to essential medicines in rural Bangladesh.

Keywords : Supply Chain Resilience, Essential Medicines, Pharmaceutical Logistics, Delayed Deliveries, Storage Infrastructure, Stakeholder Coordination, Global Supply Disruptions, Fragmented Distribution, Digital Integration, Integrated Platforms, Policy Reform, Infrastructure Development, Domestic Manufacturing, Healthcare Equity

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