Drug Management Information Systems in Public Health Facilities: Assessing Functionality and Gaps in Anambra State, South East Nigeria

Background: Drug management information systems (DMIS) are critical for accurate inventory tracking, procurement planning, and supply chain efficiency in public health facilities. In many Nigerian states, DMIS functionality is limited by infrastructure deficits and inadequate training. This study assessed DMIS functionality and existing gaps in public health facilities across Anambra State. Methods: A cross-sectional facility assessment was conducted in 30 public health facilities including two tertiary, eight secondary, and twenty primary care facilities in Anambra State. A structured assessment tool evaluated DMIS adoption, data accuracy, user training, system integration with procurement, and frequency of reporting. Key informant interviews were conducted with facility pharmacists and store officers. Results: Full digital DMIS adoption was found in only 23 percent of facilities. Paper-based systems dominated at the primary care level (90%). Stockout occurrence in the preceding three months was reported in 67 percent of facilities lacking functional DMIS. Training on any DMIS had been received by only 31 percent of relevant staff. Conclusion: DMIS functionality in Anambra public health facilities is inadequate, particularly at lower service levels. Investment in scalable digital pharmacy information systems and robust staff training is urgently required to reduce stockouts and waste. Keywords: drug management information system, supply chain, Anambra, public health, pharmacy logistics