Optimizing supply chain logistics for emergency medical supplies during pandemics

The logistic challenges in the emergency medical supply chains during the pandemic have led to the exploration of innovative solutions and robust models to optimize the supply chain logistics. This research is based on the original ideas of Li (2023). It investigates the effectiveness of different logistics strategies and innovations presented in the literature for emergency medical supply chains during pandemics. The study utilizes a mixed-method approach to assess the effectiveness and impact of these strategies in a holistic manner. Its recognizes the key performance and resilience factors through a review of existing literature and a mixing-methods research approach. Study results underscore the pivotal role of the recently proposed cutting-edge logistics models like the Physical Internet (PI), the proliferation of technological innovations like IoT devices and machine learning algorithms, and cross-sector cooperation methods in successfully managing supply chain operations. On the other hand, ethical consideration and equitable distribution principles are also considered crucial factors for the fair distribution of medical resources during emergencies. This study emphasizes the role of investment in targeted training and capacity-building schemes aimed at ensuring that supply chain managers and health professionals are ready and competent to respond to emergencies. It recommends that healthcare and policymakers should implement more advanced logistics models, integration of technological solutions, cross-sectoral collaboration, and an emphasis on ethical principles as the core strategies that should be used to improve the efficiency, reactivity and resilience of emergency medical supply chains during pandemics. This study enriches the background knowledge base by offering practical and informed methods and remedies to improve the healthcare supply system during extreme emergencies and eventually contribute to the preparedness and response to future pandemics.