WAREHOUSE OPERATIONS: FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR INCOMPLETE ORDER FULFILLMENTIN MEDICINES AND MEDICAL COMMODITIES DISTRIBUTION

Background: Incomplete order fulfillment of medicines and medical commodities to health facilities is a recognised threat to healthcare delivery continuity in public sector supply chains. This study examines supply error records at the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA) to identify the operational factors responsible for incomplete order fulfillment incidents across Hospital Management Board (HMB)-managed facilities in Plateau State, Nigeria. Methods: A retrospective review of complaint and supply error tracker records documented between August 2025 and May 2026 was conducted. Data were extracted from a structured Excel-based error tracker capturing facility name, error type, complaint details, possible causes, transfer price value in naira, corrective action, resolution status, and resolution time. Results: Incomplete order fulfillment events were documented across multiple months and facilities. The principal causal factors were: pick-and-pack errors, confirmation errors, loading errors, requisition errors, short-dated products, and wrong commodity supply. The aggregate transfer price value of undersupplied commodities across December 2025, January 2026, and May 2026 exceeded ₦2,452,477. Conclusion: Pick-and-pack errors and confirmation errors are the primary operational drivers of incomplete order fulfillment at PS-DMCMA. Systemic corrective actions including dual-check verification protocols at picking and loading, systematic pick-list reconciliation, and strengthened last-mile documentation—are recommended.