Itemized platelet supply chain with lateral transshipment under uncertainty evaluating inappropriate output in laboratories

Demand uncertainty coupled with the short lifespan of itemized platelets has caused a significant shortage at public therapeutic centers. In this regard, this paper presents a multi-objective robust stochastic mixed integer linear programming model for an integrated platelet supply chain considering unidirectional lateral transshipment between hospitals and clinics. In the proposed model, platelets are divided into typical, irradiated and washed platelets with lifespan differentiated for various types of patients. This model evaluates the risk of inappropriate production by concentrating on three different procedures for extracting platelet, including apheresis, platelet rich plasma and buffy coat methods. In this investigation, staff errors, laboratory hygiene and device failure, as well as donors' blood contamination, are considered for obtaining the function of inappropriate production rate. In our model, the logistics costs are considered as the first objective and the maximum unsatisfied demand as the second objective, both also to be minimized. To tackle demand uncertainty, a robust stochastic approach is then developed. Afterwards, to create a more realistic model, the Monte Carlo sampling approach is used for generating required scenarios. Finally, some managerial insights are provided through a real case study to evaluate the applicability of the presented model. The results indicate that the proposed model not only improves the demand satisfaction but also reduces the risk of itemized platelets wastage.