Strategic Procurement Practices and Healthcare Service Delivery: Evidence from Public Hospitals in Kenya’s North Rift Region

Abstract

Despite ongoing procurement reforms in Kenya, public hospitals continue to face stock-outs, delayed deliveries, procurement inefficiencies, and prolonged patient waiting times. This study examined the influence of strategic procurement practices on service delivery in public hospitals in Kenya’s North Rift Region, focusing on Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Nandi counties. Specifically, it assessed the effects of strategic sourcing and electronic procurement systems on patient satisfaction, service efficiency, and waiting time. The study was guided by Institutional Theory and employed a cross-sectional survey research design. The target population comprised 6,551 administration staff and patients across 336 hospitals, from which a sample of 665 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula. Multi-stage sampling was applied, while structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that the procurement practices (Strategic sourcing and Procurement systems) had positive and significant effects on service delivery. Effective procurement improved operational efficiency, reduced delays, enhanced medical supply availability, and increased patient satisfaction. The study recommends strengthening competitive sourcing and electronic procurement systems through accurate forecasting and budgeting