Analysis of Drug Inventory Control in Indonesian Hospitals Using the ABC Critical Index Method: A Systematic Review

Background: Drug inventory management in hospitals is very important to ensure the availability of safe and effective drugs, especially within the framework of the National Health Insurance (JKN). The ABC critical index method has been recognized as an efficient strategy for improving drug inventory control. Objective: This study aims to investigate the application of the ABC Critical Index method in drug inventory management in hospitals, as well as to improve the overall quality of health services. Methods: This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines and involved a literature search in four databases, namely Garuda, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar, using relevant keywords. Of the 169 articles found, eight articles were selected to meet the criteria for further analysis. Results: This review shows that drug inventory control can be improved through the application of the Critical Index ABC analysis method, which groups drugs into categories A, B, and C based on their usage value and contribution to the budget. Category A drugs, despite their small number of items, absorb the largest portion of the budget and therefore require close monitoring. In addition, the study also emphasized the importance of integrated information systems and electronic prescription systems to improve the accuracy of stock monitoring and reduce the risk of stock outs. Several studies also highlighted the benefits of the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) and Reorder Point (ROP) methods in determining the optimal order quantity and reorder time, which overall contribute to the efficiency of hospital pharmacy logistics. Conclusion: The implementation of the ABC Critical Index method in controlling drug inventory in hospitals can improve operational efficiency and ensure the availability of quality drugs. Cooperation between pharmacists and hospital management is very important to ensure the effectiveness of the control system, which in turn can improve the overall quality of health services.