The Effects of the supply chain management and procurement processes on service delivery : a case of Mopani district hospitals, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

South African public hospitals face significant challenges in supply chain management (SCM) and procurement, and Mopani District hospitals are no exception. This study investigated the effects of SCM and procurement processes on service delivery within these hospitals using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants who could provide detailed insights, while simple random sampling ensured equal participation in the survey. A total of 152 participants took part in the study, comprising 30 interviewees and 122 questionnaire respondents. The collected data were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti and Microsoft Word. Findings indicate that effective integration of supply chain performance, risk management, and flexibility enhances service delivery, while delivery delays, staff shortages, talent gaps, price fluctuations, and utility disruptions hinder performance. Strategies such as skilled recruitment, continuous training, agile and lean supply chains, just-in-time practices, and digital procurement improve efficiency and mitigate risks, though infrastructure and underutilisation challenges persist. The study highlights the importance of policy adherence, supplier accountability, succession planning, and operational risk mitigation. These insights provide practical recommendations to improve SCM and procurement, supporting enhanced service delivery in South African public hospitals.