Supply chain integration, supplier relationships and order fulfilment practices in public hospitals.

Abstract

Supply chain integration (SCI), supplier commercial relationships (SCR), and order fulfilment (OF) have been acknowledged by academics and practitioners as key areas for reducing operational costs and improving service level to meet customers? requirements. Nevertheless, little is known concerning factors influencing SCI, SCR, and OF in public hospitals. This paper reports the critical factors influencing SCI, SCR, and OF identified in a pilot study conducted in New Zealand public hospitals.