The Effect of Early Supplier Involvement on Supply Chain Performance in Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya

Abstract

Purpose: The main aim of this study was to investigate the effects the of early supplier involvement on supply chain performance in Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kenya. Material/method: This study adopted a correlational research design. It targeted 100 employees who include Chief Procurement officer, Assistant Chief Procurement officer, Accountant, Procurement officers and storekeepers. A census technique was employed. The instruments for data collection were questionnaires. Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient was used determine the reliability of the research instrument and results ranged from 0.945-0.747 was above recommended 0.7. The collected data were coded and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Conclusion: The regression results indicated that earlier supplier involvement had significant and positive effect on supply chain performance. Thus, increasing supplier involvement has an incremental effect on supply chain performance. Recommendations: The study recommended that the hospital needs to involve suppliers early before contract award, raise awareness among suppliers on the quality of items to be supplied and to co-design activity on the product with their suppliers.