Application of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Supply Chain Management

Abstract

Supply chain management in healthcare systems is considered one of the most critical infrastructural components in delivering high-quality medical services. The increasing demand for healthcare services, the complexity of pharmaceutical and medical equipment procurement processes, market fluctuations, global crises, and limited resources have reduced the efficiency of traditional supply chain management methods. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI), as a transformative technology, has played a significant role in optimizing healthcare supply chain processes. This study aims to investigate the applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare supply chain management. The paper examines major AI applications, including demand forecasting, inventory management, pharmaceutical distribution optimization, healthcare data analytics, risk management, and decision support systems. Furthermore, the advantages, challenges, and future prospects of AI technologies in healthcare supply chains are analyzed. The findings indicate that machine learning algorithms, data analytics, and intelligent systems can reduce operational costs, improve decision-making accuracy, enhance patient access to healthcare services, and increase the overall efficiency of healthcare systems. Humanity finally invented machines to compensate for the chaos it created in its own logistics networks. Remarkably efficient cycle, really.