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VOL. 12, ISSUE 12 (2025)
Exploring life cycle costing as a tool for sustainable procurement of medical equipment; A case study of selected federal healthcare institutions in Enugu State
Authors
Okafor Mirabel, Philip Dahida, Ibrahim Musa
Abstract
This study examined the use of Life Cycle
Costing (LCC) as a tool for sustainable procurement of medical laboratory
equipment, specifically Biochemistry Analyzers, in selected federal healthcare
institutions in Enugu State, Nigeria. Despite growing recognition of
sustainable procurement, Nigerian healthcare institutions often neglect
comprehensive lifecycle evaluations, resulting in suboptimal investment
decisions, higher long-term costs, and compromised patient care. Using a
mixed-method approach, the research surveyed 273 procurement professionals,
biomedical engineers, and laboratory scientists and conducted 30 key informant
interviews. Quantitative analysis applied Net Present Value (NPV) methods to
five years of procurement data, comparing open- and closed-system Biochemistry
Analyzers. Results showed that open systems, though costlier initially, offered
superior financial sustainability, lower lifecycle costs, earlier payback
periods, and greater operational flexibility. The study also revealed a significant
awareness-practice gap: while LCC concepts were well known, practical
application was limited, particularly regarding disposal costs, environmental
impacts, and residual values. Key barriers included insufficient lifecycle
data, limited technical expertise, inadequate policy frameworks, and cultural
resistance. The study recommends institutionalizing LCC through comprehensive
policies, targeted capacity building, robust data management, structured
procurement tools, leadership advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. Overall,
the findings underscore that LCC adoption enhances financial efficiency,
sustainability, and alignment with global standards, contributing to resilient
healthcare procurement systems.
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Pages:120-130
How to cite this article:
Okafor Mirabel, Philip Dahida, Ibrahim Musa "Exploring life cycle costing as a tool for sustainable procurement of medical equipment; A case study of selected federal healthcare institutions in Enugu State". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 12, Issue 12, 2025, Pages 120-130
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