Improving effective health supply chain management is a critical element of ensuring the uninterrupted flow of medical supplies and services from manufacturer to patient.  Maintaining adequate levels of stock to match patient requirements during health emergencies can be difficult, as demand for health supplies can be unpredictable during health crises. Establishing appropriate mechanisms such as emergency warning systems that can detect triggers which could lead to disruptions in public health supply chains, are important elements of risk management measures to help APEC economies better prepare for future health emergencies.