ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to assess efficient cold chain management practices in the health sector and its impact on service delivery in Ghana. The objectives of the study were to identify the existing cold chain practice in the Ghanaian healthcare sector to evaluate the challenges associated with the cold chain delivery system in
the Ghanaian healthcare sector;
and to determine cold chain delivery system and its impacts on the healthcare service delivery. The study adopted the quantitative research approach. First, a comprehensive review of the literature was carried out to identify variables that were compounded to form structured questionnaires. A survey was then conducted using the questionnaires among healthcare professionals in the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in the Ashanti regions in Ghana.
Sixty-two (62) healthcare professionals participated in the survey, whose responses were analyzed mean scores and the one-sample t-test. The study’s findings revealed a moderate level of practice of
cold chain management in Ghana, whereas the use of fridge tags or functional thermometers, presence
of emergency power supply, use of appropriate refrigeration (storage) equipment, use of requisition forms
for ordering and reporting, and storage of products at required temperatures mainly were practised. The findings also indicated that trained personnel,
reliable transportation, reliable storage and efficient management are essential for efficient cold chain management. Efficient cold chain management has a significant impact on healthcare service delivery. Notwithstanding, the significant challenges to efficient cold chain practice in the Ghanaian healthcare sector include lack of modern technology
or optimal equipment, inadequate financing, lack
of reliable transportation, erratic electric power supply, and transportation delays. The study provides empirical evidence regarding the efficient cold chain management practice and its impact on service delivery in a developing country such as Ghana. This would guide healthcare
professionals and institutions, and the government to implement strategies necessary to improve cold chain practice in the Ghanaian healthcare sector.
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