Now pharma companies not only have to manage the manufacturing and distribution of medicines and companion diagnostics, but they have to combine data and product offerings along with supplemental services to add value through enhanced outcomes and efficiencies.
2. New types of products
The growth of bioengineered vaccines, biologics and advancements including stem cell research and nanotechnology are expanding the pharma portfolio with products that don't have a longer shelf life and need more complex manufacturing and distribution processes than traditional medicines and shelf-stable pills.
3. More product launches alter the sales curve
Both the FDA and EMA have revealed their interest in limited approvals of label, granting "live licenses" contingent on ongoing testing. The processes used by them support revenue projections for more product launches, with high sales bar. It is found that pharma companies need more adaptable cost structures that save gross margins at every stage of product lifecycle.
4. New modes used for healthcare delivery
Promotion of EHRs, e-prescribing services, mobile health applications, and remote monitoring has changed the healthcare delivery system. It includes medication management, beyond hospitals and doctor's offices inside homes, communities, and direct to patients.
Pharma companies require real time data to handle wider distribution networks and expected manufacturing and distribution processes.
5. Greater public scrutiny
The need of supply chain control has increased due to the globalization, importing and manufacturing of regulated products along with the rise in the complexity and amount of imported products. The supply chain control helps in determining the risk of contamination and fake medicines.
It has been predicted by experts in the market that pharma supply chain will undergo changes and will become -
6. Fragmented
- Means of market differentiation
- Source of economic value
- Two way street
Successful pharma companies and pharma pcd distributors will be those who identify the underlying value reside in their supply chain and can leverage it as a brand and value differentiator instead of just a cost. Such companies will go miles and stand out by 2020.
If you need more details on supply chain distribution trends, you can anytime ask the experts of the market.