Needs Assessment and Effective Materials Management Strategies for Administrative and Personnel Involved in Mukdahan Provincial Health Network

Abstract

Purposes: To investigate the priority needs and effective supply management guidelines for administrators and relevant personnel within the Mukdahan Health Network.

Study design: Cross-Sectional Descriptive Research.

Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 117 public health administrators and relevant personnel in the Mukdahan Health Network, selected through simple random sampling. The study was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025. Data were collected using a questionnaire with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.83. Statistical analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Modified Priority Needs Index (PNI modified).  

Main findings: Regarding general supply management, "Control, Maintenance, and Audit" showed the highest priority need (PNI modified = 0.107). For effective supply management specific to health networks, "Accuracy and Transparency" emerged as the most critical need (PNI modified = 0.083). The proposed effective management guidelines consist of four strategies: 1) Smart Inventory & Audit through digital systems, 2) Transparency & Integrity Focus, 3) Capacity Building through a Mentoring Network, and 4) Strategic Planning & Value for Money.

Conclusion and Recommendations: The Mukdahan Health Network should prioritize enhancing accuracy and transparency. Key recommendations include implementing digital audit systems and fostering a mentorship-based competency development model to ensure strategic and cost-effective supply management.