In vaccine management, which data point helps prevent stockouts and maintain vaccine supply?

• A. Stock color
• B. Reorder thresholds
• C. Delivery date
• D. Delivery vehicle type

Answer: (B)

Setting a reorder threshold is the key data point for preventing stockouts. This threshold is the minimum on-hand quantity that should trigger a new order, and it’s chosen to cover expected usage during the supplier’s lead time plus a safety buffer. When inventory drops to this level, an order goes in so the next shipment arrives before stock runs out, keeping vaccine supplies continuous. In practice, the threshold is based on how quickly vaccines are used and how long it takes to restock, ensuring timely replenishment even with variability. The other options don’t serve this planning purpose: stock color doesn’t indicate quantity, delivery date is about when something arrives rather than when to reorder, and delivery vehicle type has no impact on inventory levels.