Integrating Intra- and Extra- Logistics in the Blood Supply Chain A Conceptual Healthcare 5.0 Solution through Visual Modeling

This case study examines the holistic reengineering of the blood supply chain of a centralized transfusion hub in Lombardy, integrating internal logistics (laboratory) and external logistics (distribution) within the Healthcare 5.0 paradigm. While the proposed configurations are not yet physically implemented, this study represents a conceptual and methodological success story, demonstrating the viability of translating theoretical Healthcare 5.0 principles into structured operational models.
Using a visual modeling methodology with the Scene2Model software, the study deconstructed the initial (AS-IS) setup - burdened by manual bottlenecks, asymmetric cognitive workloads, and rigid road-based distribution with a high environmental impact - in order to conceptually validate future (TO-BE) scenarios. The designed solutions combine digital automation (automated data download, decentralized labeling, and dynamic staff allocation) with the specialization of territorial transport providers, simulating the use of intermediate hubs, motor vehicles, and electric drones to separate routine flows from urgent ones.
The simulated framework demonstrates how stabilizing the internal laboratory can potentially optimize external routes, aiming to minimize the carbon footprint and enhance systemic resilience through structural redundancies, while mitigating operational risks. Finally, the development of hybrid skills (from technical-digital capabilities to change management) proves to be essential for future change implementation.