Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) for Health Commodities at Public Health Facilities in Amhara National Regional State of Ethiopia: A Data Quality Evaluation Survey [Letter]

Dear editor

We read with great interest the study by Mekonen et al. Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) for Health Commodities at Public Health Facilities in Amhara National Regional State of Ethiopia: A Data Quality Evaluation Survey. The study provides crucial insights into inventory accuracy, report completeness, and data legitimacy, highlighting ongoing challenges in health supply chain management.¹

One key finding that warrants further discussion is the substantial discrepancy between physical and electronic inventory accuracy, averaging 74.7% and 70.6%, respectively. The study attributes these discrepancies to infrequent updates and workforce limitations. This aligns with previous research indicating that inadequate digital record-keeping and reliance on paper-based systems contribute to inefficiencies in LMIS, leading to stockouts and resource mismanagement.² Addressing this issue requires robust digital integration and workforce training to enhance data accuracy.

Additionally, while the study finds that Report and Requisition Form (RRF) submission rates are relatively high, fluctuating rates of completeness (90.2%), legality (77.2%), and accuracy (76%) suggest systemic inconsistencies in data management. Recent studies emphasize the importance of automated data validation mechanisms to improve reporting reliability.³ The recommendation to implement digital LMIS solutions aligns with global best practices and should be prioritized to enhance efficiency.

A recent study by Tilahun and Dinka highlights the importance of robust end-to-end data management protocols in health supply chains to ensure full traceability of health commodities.³ They emphasize that such protocols are necessary for improving data accuracy and operational efficiency. Additionally, research by Gemechu et al assessing inventory management performance for antiretroviral drugs in public health facilities in Addis Ababa found that effective LMIS implementation played a crucial role in ensuring the availability and quality of commodity data, ultimately improving healthcare services.³

In conclusion, Mekonen et al’s study provides valuable insights into LMIS inefficiencies and underscores the urgent need for digital transformation. Strengthening infrastructure, providing targeted training, and integrating real-time data verification mechanisms will be essential in ensuring the reliability of health supply chain systems.