Medication logistics in Public Healthcare: Model adopted by the State of Minas Gerais in Brazil

The main objectives of this study are to describe the logistic operation model adopted in relation to public politics on the acquisition and distribution of medications by the Government of the State of Minas Gerais, in order to compare the previous model with the new model and to identify the main advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing the logistics operation in reference to the medications of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. In order to perform this study, we adopted the quantitative research, performing document investigations and interviews with the managers of the State Department of Health of Minas Gerais (SES-MG) directly involved in the logistic operation processes of medications in the State of Minas Gerais. The results show a new medication logistic model adopted by the State of Minas Gerais, which includes the employment of a logistics operator, rationalizing costs and bringing quality to the servicesprovided in the performance of logistic activities. However, despite the efforts of the SES-MG in Brazil, there are still difficulties in the SES-MG position while manager of outsource employments. SES-MG did not present much experience with this type of employment. However, there are some challenges to be met.   Key words: Logistics, medications, public healthcare.