5. Conclusion

Today, new business sectors are developing approaches to logistics management and supply chain management. A sector specializing in "logistics services" has taken over most of the operational logistics activities that were gradually outsourced by manufacturers, and then by most distributors.

Hospitals have become more aware of their logistical problems, which were long considered secondary to the priority given to care. The flow of medicines and consumables linked to catering, laundry and the operation of care equipment is increasingly subject to rigorous logistics management, with performance objectives in terms of cost and service. The quest for cooperation with suppliers has even prompted some hospital groups, notably in the United States, to set up a "Health Supply Chain".

NGOs have also realized that the effectiveness of their humanitarian...