A Systematic Review of Inventory Management Practices in Hospital Pharmacies: Challenges Innovations, and Occupational Safety Considerations

Abstract

Hospital pharmacies play a pivotal role in ensuring timely, accurate, and safe medication delivery within healthcare systems. Effective inventory management is not only critical for maintaining drug availability and financial efficiency but also for safeguarding patient safety and supporting a healthy work environment. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on inventory management practices in hospital pharmacies, highlighting key operational challenges such as stock-outs, expired medications, pilferage, data inconsistencies, and workforce constraints. In addition to exploring technological innovations—including automation, artificial intelligence, and blockchain—the review emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of occupational health and safety (K3) in storage and distribution processes. Issues related to physical workload, hazardous drug handling, ergonomic risks, and storage conditions are examined as integral components of inventory systems. The findings underscore the need for integrated, safety-oriented, and technology-driven inventory strategies, supported by competent personnel and institutional commitment, to improve pharmaceutical logistics and ensure both patient and staff well-being.