Application of SSM in the Distribution Chain of Antiretroviral Medicines

Purpose: The paper analyzes the distribution chain of antiretroviral drugs of the HIV/AIDS Program, through the application of Soft Systems Methodology- SSM, from the perspective of the professionals who work in the pharmacy of the university public hospital of high complexity responsible for the logistic coordination of the HIV / AIDS Program at the state level.Design/methodology/approach: To obtain a systemic view of the functioning of the chain and the factors that lead to the rupture of the distribution channel, SSM was used.Findings: The results obtained contribute to understand how complicated the logistics of these drugs are; them propose possible solutions to solved this situation.Research, Practical & Social implications: The study showed the importance of the methodology applied to the organizational reality of a public organization.Originality/value: The research subjects are: (i) four professionals from the HIV / AIDS Program of the hospital under study; (ii) three professionals in the coordination of the Planning of the Acquisition of Medicines and inputs of the HIV / AIDS Program of the State Secretariat of Health of Pernambuco.