Evaluating a New Distribution System for Department of Veterans Affairs Depots

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a new 72-hour delivery system (USXPRESS) for pharmaceuticals purchased by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals from VA de pots. Thirty-three test sites were compared with 11 matched sites using a pretest-posttest quasi- experimental design. Outcome measures included inventory and transportation costs, storage space, system satisfaction, and drug availability. As a result of USXPRESS, both the dollar value of inventory and pharmaceutical storage space decreased in VA warehouses. Respondents were more satisfied with USXPRESS than the previous system. The primary goals of reduced inventory, decreased space needs, and increased satisfaction were met through USXPRESS.

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References

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