Vaccine Procurement: A Conceptual Framework Based on Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy
• Supply Chain Management

Background:

• Timely access to affordable vaccines is a global health priority, highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Effective vaccine procurement strategies are vital but remain an under-researched area.
• This study addresses the need for a clearer understanding of vaccine procurement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define key concepts and methods in vaccine procurement.
• To identify knowledge gaps and future research directions.
• To develop a conceptual framework for vaccine procurement.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was performed.
• Searches included four academic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science).
• Grey literature and institutional websites were also consulted.

Main Results:

• A theoretical framework for vaccine procurement was developed.
• Key factors identified include product quality, forecasting, legislation, financial sustainability, manufacturing diversity, contracting, training, logistics, and monitoring.
• This framework provides a comprehensive overview of the procurement process.

Conclusions:

• Vaccine procurement is complex, involving multiple interconnected factors.
• The developed framework can guide policymakers in planning and evaluating procurement strategies.
• Further research is needed to address identified knowledge gaps in vaccine procurement.