The impact of supply chain integration on health-care organization performance in the era of Industry 4.0: a SEM analysis

Purpose This study aims to explore the effects of the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies in the health-care supply chain (HSC) on the performance of organizations, taking into account the mediating variables of health-care-patient integration, inter-functional integration and health-care suppliers’ integration. The objective of the study is to offer perspectives on how contemporary technological progressions can optimize supply chain effectiveness and overall performance in health-care environments. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected via a structured questionnaire administered to key stakeholders within the HSC, encompassing doctors, nurses, administrative staff and allied health professionals. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, the research aimed to assess the proposed relationships between the variables, with SPSS used for both descriptive and inferential statistical assessments. Findings The study finds that adopting I4.0 technologies significantly enhances organization performance (OP) in the HSC. This improvement is driven by the effective integration of patients, inter-functional operations and suppliers, which leads to better patient outcomes, cohesive organization processes and streamlined supply chain efficiency. Research limitations/implications The research is limited by its focus on a single geographical region and the cross-sectional nature of the data, which may not capture long-term effects. Practical implications This study is useful for health-care professionals and researchers because it identifies and enables them to pinpoint the variables that influence outcomes effectively. Originality/value This research study enhances the current knowledge base by presenting empirical findings on the interaction between I4.0 technologies and OP within the health-care-industry. The study provides significant perspectives for health-care administrators and policymakers seeking to enhance performance by strategically adopting and integrating technologies.