Building Strong Health Supply Chain Systems: The Visibility and Analytics Network approach to improving the Nigeria Immunization Supply Chain.

BACKGROUND:  Health supply chain managers are unable to effectively monitor the performance of the Immunization supply chain in Nigeria. As a result, they are unable to make effective, data-driven decisions. This results in poor vaccine availability at some service delivery points. A lack of reliable data for evidence-based decision making is a significant contributor to this challenge.

METHOD: The Visibility and Analytics Network ("VAN") principles were introduced to enable end-to-end visibility in the immunization supply chain and logistics (ISCL) system and make more accurate data available to health supply chain managers.

RESULTS:  The application of the VAN principles has led to improved data collection, real-time stock visibility, enhanced data analytics framework. This enhanced visibility has promoted a culture of accountability and data-driven decision-making previously unattainable. Health supply chain managers are now equipped with better skills and tools to promote effective operation of the immunization supply chain.

CONCLUSION:  The introduction of VAN principles has been an effective approach to improving data visibility and creating incremental improvements in the ISCL in Nigeria.