This document discusses materials management in a hospital setting. It covers the key functions and processes involved, including purchase policies, receiving goods, inventory processes, distribution, and equipment management. Maintaining proper materials management is important to prevent issues like shortages, expiries, wastage, and pilferage. The main functions outlined are materials planning, purchasing, inventory control, storekeeping, standardization, transportation, quality control, and cost reduction. Purchase principles focus on obtaining the right quality, quantity, price, source and timing. Inventory control systems indicate when and how much to order to maintain optimum stock levels. Distribution involves moving materials from storage to end users as needed.