The Impact of Implementing the Drug Tracking System (RSD) on Operational Efficiency in the Saudi Healthcare Supply Chain

Background: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) introduced the Drug Track and Trace System (RSD) to improve drug safety and combat counterfeit medications. This study evaluates the effects of RSD implementation on stakeholders in Saudi Arabia's pharmaceutical supply chain. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted using a structured survey distributed to 341 pharmaceutical stakeholders across Saudi Arabia. Participants were categorized into three groups based on their RSD implementation status: fully implemented, in progress, or not yet implemented. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate stakeholder experiences, perceived benefits, and implementation challenges. Results: Of the 129 respondents (38% response rate), 78% had fully implemented RSD. Among these, 73% reported improved drug traceability, 65% observed enhanced product safety, and 63% noted better inventory management. However, only 50% perceived improvements in operational efficiency. Stakeholders in the implementation phase reported technical (65%) and financial (40%) barriers, while those not yet implementing cited lack of technical expertise (78%) as a primary barrier. Across groups, benefits such as enhanced traceability and inventory control were acknowledged, but challenges including infrastructure gaps, cost constraints, and variable user readiness persisted. Conclusion: RSD implementation shows promise for optimizing Saudi Arabia's pharmaceutical supply chain, particularly in enhancing traceability and product safety. However, several technical and financial challenges remain, including limited in-house technical expertise at the facility level and the upfront costs associated with hardware procurement, software upgrades, and infrastructure adaptation. These barriers must be addressed to realize the system’s full potential across all stakeholder groups. Targeted technical support, and phased investment strategies may help mitigate adoption barriers and enhance overall system effectiveness.