Introduction to the Problem and AI Solution
Facing drug shortages in Mexico, there’s an opportunity to adopt a smart supply model for medical drugs and supplies using artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data analytics, which has proven efficient in other countries.
AI-Driven Efficiency in Medical Logistics
“Beyond planning, AI applied to logistics enables the design of more efficient distribution routes, reduces waste due to expiration, and monitors cold chain in real-time using IoT sensors,” explained Mario Ulloa, leader of the Public Sector for SAS Mexico.
Benefits of AI and Advanced Data Analytics
Digital traceability, supported by technologies like blockchain, ensures each lot is tracked from origin to final delivery, reducing losses and counterfeit medications.
- In countries like Denmark, AI-based predictive models have reduced vacuum shortages by 27% and restocking times by 35%, even during peak demand periods.
- The Hospital Universitario in Frankfurt, Germany, reduced unused hospital resources by 40% by predicting flu outbreaks up to three weeks in advance.
- In Brazil, Norway, and South Africa, advanced analytics has decreased emergency incidents due to shortages by 30%, generated up to 15% savings in public procurement processes, and achieved 97% availability of essential medicines in public clinics.
These results were achieved by integrating clinical, logistical, and financial data to anticipate drug demand, plan consolidated purchases, and optimize inventories. This transitioned healthcare systems from reactive supply management to a preventive model.
Relevance for Mexico
According to SAS, a global data analytics company, adopting AI and advanced data analytics presents an opportunity for the Mexican government and public health institutions to transform supply management and ensure a “Complete Prescription” for every patient.
“The adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics represents an opportunity for the Mexican government and public health institutions to transform supply management and ensure a ‘Complete Prescription’ for every patient,” according to SAS, a global data analytics company.
This is particularly relevant as Mexico’s Megafarmacia del Bienestar addressed only 8.5% of received requests between December 2023 and April 2024, according to Cero Desabasto organization data.
AI’s Impact on Distribution and Cold Chain Monitoring
Mario Ulloa further explained that AI adoption has optimized distribution routes, reduced waste due to expiration, and enabled real-time monitoring of the cold chain for medications and vaccines.
Ensuring Treatment Continuity
With an intelligent supply model, each prescription is linked to available inventory and the necessary logistics for fulfillment. The goal is to ensure treatment continuity and reduce reliance on emergency purchases.
