Title: Challenging times to pharmaceutical supply chains towards sustainability: a case study application

Authors: Ana Margarida Santos Bravo; José Crespo De Carvalho

Addresses: ISCTE-IUL-Lisbon University Institute, Av. Das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal ' ISCTE-IUL-Lisbon University Institute, Av. Das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is one of the most high tech industries dedicated to quality, headed for the compliance fulfilment of regulatory bodies. Nevertheless, the increase of returns and recalls that is taking place, suggests the change in paradigm that is happening in this industry. Therefore, this paper is the combination of findings of previous literature reviews conducted by the authors with the application of a case study. In particular, we explore the links between pharmaceutical drugs quality, reverse logistics, and sustainability. With this approach we expect the deeper understanding on the type of returns companies receive, especially from hospital pharmacies. Consequently, it is anticipated to link both parties in the application of a quality by design risk management approach as well as reduce variability and risk of non-compliance.

Keywords: pharmaceutical industry; case study; GSCM; green SCM; supply chain management; pharmaceutical supply chains; eco-friendly; environmentally friendly; sustainability; greening; environment friendly; sustainable development; quality by design; compliance; non-compliance; regulation; regulatory bodies; recalls; returns; case studies; reverse logistics; hospital pharmacies; hospitals; healthcare industry; health sector; procurement management; risk management; variability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPM.2015.066292

International Journal of Procurement Management, 2015 Vol.8 No.1/2, pp.126 - 140

Published online: 24 Jan 2015 *

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