IMPACT OF SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT PRACTICES IN THE HEALTH INDUSTRY: A CASE OF EASTERN REGIONAL HOSPITAL, KOFORIDUA

Abstract

Sustainable procurement practices have emerged as a vital strategy for organizations worldwide, aiming to address environmental, social, and economic concerns within their sustainable procurement practices. The study's objective was to assess Ghana's health industry's use of sustainable procurement methods. The study also aim to ascertain sustainable procurement practices, evaluate their impact, and investigate the obstacles associated with sustainable buying practices. Eastern Regional Hospital served as the case study for the study. A descriptive survey approach yielded a sample size of 25 respondents for the study. With the use of statistical packages for social sciences (SPSSv20.0), the data was analysed after being gathered through questionnaires. According to the report, the company uses sustainable procurement methods, which benefits the hospital. The findings suggest that sustainable procurement practices positively impact the hospital's operations. Notable effects include a reduction in operational costs, improved environmental outcomes, and enhanced efficiency in the procurement process. However, challenges such as higher initial costs and limited supplier availability were also identified. Efforts should be made to identify and collaborate with more suppliers who offer sustainable products, ensuring that the hospital has access to a wider range of options. The conclusion reached was that the hospital should be considering sustainable procurement as it lowers operating costs and harmonizes sustainability requirements. Given the benefits of sustainable procurement, it was suggested that hospitals keep using these methods of sourcing. To reduce the negative impact of sustainable activities, the hospital needs to implement steps.