The supply chain for delivering HIV/AIDS-related commodities to the people who need them spans from manufacturing to service delivery points. Along the way, numerous logistics and program design issues must be confronted, including—

Financing and procurement:
Multiple sources of financing are available, but usually in short-term cycles. This raises concerns about the sustainability of HIV/AIDS programs and the long-term security of commodities. In addition, in-country procurement capacity is weak, resulting in irregular resupply and periodic oversupply that leads to waste.

Logistics management information systems (LMIS):
Without accurate and timely data on consumption, stock levels, and losses, HIV/AIDS program managers cannot make key resupply decisions or maintain efficient logistics operations. A well-designed, well-functioning LMIS is the most important technical element in supply chain management.

Warehousing and distribution:
In-country storage and transport resources are at a premium as HIV/AIDS programs expand and use a more extensive variety of commodities. Adding an entire class of high-value, potentially high-volume products that require special handling requires an up-front investment to improve storage and distribution systems.

Human capacity for logistics:
Systems are only as effective as the people who manage them. Yet, historically, logistics management has not been a priority for governments. Furthermore, HIV/AIDS is placing a tremendous burden on the health sector, both in terms of health worker attrition and increased demand for HIV/AIDS-related services.