Efficient inventory control is one of the pillars of good clinical management. In a scenario where the waste of supplies, expiration losses, and material shortages directly impact care quality, understanding storage and distribution methods becomes essential. Strategies such as FIFO, LIFO, and FEFO offer distinct organization models that, when properly applied, can generate savings, safety, and internal process flow.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of each of these strategies, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the ideal model for your clinic's reality, considering aspects such as supply type, turnover, and regulatory requirements.
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Understanding FIFO, LIFO, and FEFO
FIFO (First In, First Out), LIFO (Last In, First Out), and FEFO (First Expired, First Out) are logistics methods used to organize the output of products from inventory. Each has its own logic that directly impacts material flow, loss prevention, and process organization.
In the clinical environment, understanding these strategies is crucial, especially in areas such as pharmacy, warehouse, and procedure rooms. The choice of model influences both patient safety and clinic profitability.
How FIFO Works
The FIFO method prioritizes the use of items that entered the inventory first. In other words, the first product in is also the first product out. This model is especially suitable for perishable products or those with short expiration dates.
In clinics, FIFO is widely used for medications, surgical materials, and laboratory supplies. It reduces the risk of expiration and supports more accurate inventory turnover control.
Advantages and Disadvantages of FIFO
Among the main advantages of FIFO is the prevention of losses due to expiration. This model also facilitates audits and provides more predictability in product consumption.
On the other hand, it may require a more robust logistics system since storage must follow a specific order. This can be a challenge for smaller clinics with limited space.
How LIFO Works
The LIFO method is the opposite of FIFO: the last item to enter the inventory is the first to leave. Although less common in healthcare environments, it can be useful for non-perishable or high-turnover materials.
In clinics, LIFO can apply to items such as paper, disposable gloves, or office supplies. In contexts with high turnover and low expiration risk, this strategy can lead to cost savings.
Advantages and Disadvantages of LIFO
LIFO allows quicker access to newly acquired items, which can be beneficial during periods of fluctuating prices or for generic supplies. It also requires less physical organization of inventory.
However, its application in clinics is limited. It may cause the accumulation of older products, which is risky for items with expiration dates or constant quality requirements.
How FEFO Works
FEFO prioritizes the output of products with the closest expiration date, regardless of the order they entered the inventory. It is the most recommended model for vaccines, medications, and any product with critical expiration.
In clinics that work with immunization, internal pharmacies, or that store biological products, FEFO ensures patient safety and compliance with health regulations.
Advantages and Disadvantages of FEFO
The main advantage of FEFO is ensuring that no product surpasses its expiration date. It reduces waste and increases care safety. It also facilitates compliance with regulatory health authorities.
On the other hand, it requires automated systems or constant date verification, which may require more time or investment in technology.
When to Use FIFO in Clinics
FIFO is ideal for clinics with rotating inventory and predictable expiration dates. Areas such as nursing, laboratory, and surgical centers usually benefit from this strategy.
Additionally, it is a smart choice to maintain purchase predictability, helping avoid urgent or emergency acquisitions that tend to be more expensive.
When to Use LIFO in Clinics
Although less common, LIFO can be advantageous in administrative or support areas. Items such as paper, envelopes, and office supplies fit well in this model.
It can also be applied temporarily in specific situations, such as high demand for a low-cost generic item without expiration risk.
When to Use FEFO in Clinics
FEFO is essential when storing medications, vaccines, or products with short expiration. Clinics working with injectable procedures or pharmaceutical rehabilitation should prioritize it.
Its application is also crucial for clinics seeking to avoid penalties or issues during health surveillance audits.
Comparing the Three Models
Each model meets a different need. FIFO is excellent for control and predictability, LIFO for agility with non-critical supplies, and FEFO for safety in perishable products.
Choosing the model depends on the product type, clinic infrastructure, and the main objective of inventory management: savings, safety, or practicality.
How to Implement FIFO, LIFO, or FEFO in Ninsaúde Clinic
Ninsaúde Clinic allows configuration of the inventory system to operate with any of these models. The clinic can even apply different strategies depending on the product type or department.
In addition, the system offers batch control, barcode reading, expiration alerts, and integration with purchasing and finance, automating the process.
Batch Control and Traceability
For FEFO to work correctly, batch control is essential. Ninsaúde Clinic enables full traceability of each item, from entry to dispensation.
This also contributes to product recalls, audits, and quality control, serving as a support tool for patient safety.
Reports and ABC Curve for Decision-Making
In addition to the rotation model, another strategic resource is the ABC curve. It helps identify the most relevant products for clinic operations.
Based on this data, it’s possible to better define which products require more control, which strategy to apply, and the priorities for purchasing and replenishment.
Supplier Integration and Invoice Import
Good inventory management also depends on a strong supplier relationship. With Ninsaúde Clinic, invoices can be imported directly and entries registered automatically.
This reduces operational time and avoids manual errors. Additionally, the system allows comparison of prices, volumes, and terms, improving negotiations with multiple suppliers.
Inventory by Unit and Warehouse
Clinics with more than one unit or separate departments benefit from warehouse control. With Ninsaúde Clinic, it’s possible to monitor inventory movement in real-time by specific location.
This feature ensures greater precision in logistical planning and prevents shortages or excess of materials in certain areas.
Choosing the Ideal Strategy for Your Clinic
Defining between FIFO, LIFO, or FEFO must consider the material type, clinic size, and desired level of control. In many cases, combining models is the best alternative.
With a complete system like Ninsaúde Clinic, it’s possible to customize the inventory strategy and ensure efficient, safe, and goal-aligned management.
The Future of Inventory Control in Clinics
With advancing technology, inventory control in clinics is becoming increasingly smart and automated. The use of data, alerts, and personalized reports will enable more strategic decisions.
Implementing strategies like FIFO, LIFO, or FEFO with the support of a robust system is the first step to transforming inventory from an operational sector into a competitive advantage for the clinic.
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