Assessment of drug inventory using ABC-VED matrix analysis in selected public health facilities of Puducherry, India.

Background: Nearly one-third of the healthcare budget is spent on medicines. A proper drug inventory planning is essential to ensure regular availability of essential medicines, the most efficient use of medicines, and minimize wastage of medicines and medical supplies as well. This study was conducted to assess drug inventory using ABC (Always, Better, Control)-VED (Vital, Essential, Desirable) matrix analysis in selected public health facilities of Puducherry, India.

Methodology: Data regarding the annual budget spent on medicines were collected separately from 10 public health facilities (nine primary health centers and one tertiary care hospital) for the period of one financial year (2019-2020). ABC, VED, and ABC-VED matrix was performed to study drug inventory.

Results: The study found that 7.8%, 10.4%, and 15.4% of medicines belonged to Class A in state govt. PHCs (primary health centers), central govt. PHCs, and tertiary care hospital, respectively. In state govt. PHCs, the budget spent on Vital and Essential medicines was 37.3% and 49.9%, respectively. In central govt. PHCs, 13.9% and 57.9% of the budget were spent on Vital and Essential medicines, respectively. In tertiary care hospital, the budget spent on Vital and Essential medicines was found as 26.6% and 30%, respectively.

Conclusion: The drug inventory techniques need to be implemented in routine practice for optimal use of resources and elimination of medicines in out-of-stock and over-stock situations in health facilities. Data from this study could help pharmacists working in public health facilities of Puducherry, India, to better control, avoid wastage, and promote rational use of medicines in a pharmacy.