This study aims to explain how relational and operational capabilities jointly influence logistics performance and patient quality of life (QoL) in organ transplantation (OT) by empirically testing an integrated service supply chain (SC) framework grounded in social exchange theory and supply chain readiness (SCR), thereby advancing interdisciplinary understanding of performance creation in time-critical healthcare logistics systems.
The study employs a quantitative, survey-based approach to test an integrated SC framework within OT logistics. Researchers collected data from stakeholders in the transplantation network and analyzed it using confirmatory factor analysis to validate the measurement model. Structural equation modeling examined direct and mediated effects among relational capabilities, readiness factors, supply chain performance (SCP) and patient QoL.
Relational capabilities and SCR jointly influence OT logistics performance, significantly impacting patient QoL. Relationship quality, trust and collaboration enhance SCP, while resilience and risk management apply through adaptive and preventive mechanisms. SCP mediates the effects of upstream capabilities on patient outcomes, with trust and collaboration also directly affecting QoL. These findings highlight the essential role of relational governance in time-sensitive healthcare logistics networks.
The study translates supply chain management concepts into actionable insights for OT logistics by empirically linking relational governance and readiness capabilities to patient QoL. Findings provide a pioneering, evidence-based framework that illustrates how logistics design and coordination decisions directly impact patient outcomes in transplantation networks, bridging a critical gap between logistics management research and healthcare practice.
