The Significance of Effective Distribution Logistics in Ensuring Equal Access to Medicinal Products in Poland
Purpose: The distribution of pharmaceuticals plays a crucial yet often underappreciated role in the healthcare system, forming an integral part of the supply chain that directly impacts patient health, lives, and public safety. An efficiently functioning pharmaceutical distribution system is essential not only for eliminating delays in access to medications but also for ensuring continuity of treatment and minimizing epidemiological risks. This article focuses on the current logistical challenges and solutions that can support drug distribution. Design/Methodology/Approach: The main objective of the research is to highlight the role of distribution logistics in ensuring equal access to medicinal products in Poland, with particular emphasis on contemporary challenges and logistical solutions affecting drug distribution in smaller urban centres and rural areas. The theoretical and cognitive goal is a comprehensive review of the relevant literature, legal acts, and scientific studies related to the subject matter. The article utilizes literature analysis, case studies, and empirical data from industry reports (such as those from the Central Statistical Office, IQVIA, PMR, Pharmaceutical Race of Nations, and Pharmaceutical Market – New Opening as well as personal observations. The research confirmed that effective logistics, based on modern distribution channels, is a key factor influencing equality in access to medicinal products. This has significant implications for public health, health security stability, and the economic development of local areas. Findings: The analysis presented in the article highlights the logistical challenges that limit equal access to medications in Poland and disrupt the efficient functioning of supply chains. It also outlines potential development perspectives for pharmaceutical distribution in the context of improving the availability of medicinal products. Practical implications: The outcome of conceptual work includes proposals for changing the functioning of contemporary distribution models, which can be utilized by policymakers, legislative authorities, and representatives of institutions responsible for shaping pharmaceutical policy and the healthcare system in Poland to improve regulations concerning pharmaceutical distribution. Originality/Value: The authors present the possibilities of utilizing modern pharmaceutical distribution channels based on advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), artificial intelligence, and ERP systems, which represent the future of the pharmaceutical sector. Their development can contribute not only to the optimization of drug delivery but also to improving the health security of society as a whole. Poland should strive for the integration of such solutions, which can aid in crisis management, responding to emergencies, and safeguarding public health.