A five-decade review of academic research on healthcare supply chain: a bibliometric approach using co-word analysis and bibliographic coupling
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.This bibliometric study maps the evolution of healthcare supply chain (HCS) research from 1971-2024, identifying key trends and emerging areas. The findings guide future research directions for scholars and practitioners in the HCS field.
Area Of Science
- Healthcare Supply Chain Management
- Bibliometric Analysis
- Research Evolution
Background
- The healthcare supply chain (HCS) is critical for effective healthcare delivery.
- Understanding the historical development and current trends in HCS research is essential for strategic planning and future innovation.
- A longitudinal analysis provides a comprehensive view of the field's progression.
Purpose Of The Study
- To analyze the impact and evolution of scientific research on the healthcare supply chain (HCS) from 1971 to 2024.
- To identify emerging and established areas of study within HCS research.
- To provide a longitudinal perspective on the HCS research landscape.
Main Methods
- Bibliometric study of 3,602 publications from Web of Science and Scopus databases.
- Analysis of keyword co-occurrences to map research evolution.
- Utilized tables, diagrams, and longitudinal maps for visualization of research topics.
Main Results
- Identification of key themes and trends in HCS research over five decades.
- A comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in HCS research.
- Visual representations highlight the dynamic research landscape and emerging areas.
Conclusions
- Findings offer practical implications for researchers and scholars in the HCS domain.
- Identified research areas and trends provide guidance for future HCS research directions.
- Contributes to a deeper understanding of HCS research evolution, informing future investigations.
Related Concept Videos
At the different levels of the healthcare system, we see varying methods of healthcare used. These methods include managed care systems, case management, and primary healthcare.
Managed Care System:
The managed care system is designed to control the cost while maintaining the quality of care. The patient's care from admission to discharge is planned by the primary care provider or the case manager, also known as the gatekeeper. In a managed care system, the number of care providers is...
The issues and trends in healthcare delivery are constantly changing. The COVID-19 pandemic is one recent issue that wreaked havoc on healthcare systems, causing a shortage of healthcare workers, high demand for medicines and supplies, and increased medical expenditure due to a lack of insurance. Other issues include rising healthcare costs and care fragmentation.
Cost Containment
Payment for healthcare services has historically promoted adoption of costly and often unnecessary or inefficient...
Secondary healthcare is offered by a specialist, generally in hospitals or clinics for patients referred by primary healthcare providers. It occurs when a person has an illness or injury that requires specific medical care. Secondary care is often referred to as acute care. Secondary care can range from uncomplicated care to repair a minor laceration or treat a strep throat infection to more complicated emergent care, such as treating a head injury sustained in an automobile accident. Whatever...
An integrated healthcare system (IHS) is a set of organizations that provides for or arranges to provide coordinated and continuous service to a defined population. The IHS takes responsibility for that particular population's health status and outcome, both clinically and fiscally. An integrated healthcare system is a well-organized, well-coordinated, and collaborative network. The integrated delivery system is a network that connects different healthcare providers to deliver organized,...
Health Information Technology (HIT)
Health Information Technology, commonly called HIT, integrates advanced information systems and technology in healthcare settings. Its primary functions include:
Documentation and Monitoring of Patient Care: HIT systems facilitate the efficient recording and tracking of patient data, aiding healthcare providers in monitoring patients' health status and making informed decisions.
Managerial and Organizational Functions: Beyond patient care, HIT is...
The healthcare system is constantly changing and complex. Various services are available from different healthcare providers, but gaining access to these services has become challenging for people with limited healthcare insurance. Uninsured people present a challenge to healthcare because they frequently postpone or forego treatment.
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) advocates for a patient-centered, effective, safe, timely, equitable, and effective healthcare system. The National Priorities...

