Agentic AI is gaining importance in life sciences and healthcare supply chains. However, its impact depends on solid digital foundations, aligned stakeholders, and a consistent focus on patient value. In this interview, Anna Mansurova, Head of Healthcare Logistics IMEA (India, Middle East & Africa) at Hellmann, shares how healthcare organizations can prepare for agentic AI, from getting the basics right to using network-based collaboration and intelligent tools to strengthen supply chain resilience.

Agentic AI is gaining momentum. What does this mean for healthcare supply chains?

Anna Mansurova: Agentic AI allows us to automate routine supply chain decisions that are already well defined, such as inventory thresholds, replenishment logic, or exception handling. These activities can be executed faster and more consistently by intelligent systems.
The real advantage is what happens next. By reducing manual effort in day-to-day decision-making, teams gain time to focus on complex challenges, new therapies, and evolving market demands. In healthcare logistics, human expertise remains critical.

What needs to be in place before agentic AI can deliver real value?

Anna Mansurova: Digitalization is the starting point. Companies need a clear overview of where their data sits and how well systems are connected. Without integrated platforms and reliable data, advanced AI capabilities simply cannot work.

Just as important is an alignment. Digital initiatives must support a clear business purpose. In healthcare, that purpose is always linked to patient needs. When technology, operations, and leadership are aligned around that goal, transformation becomes far more effective.

How does Hellmann approach digitalization in healthcare logistics today?

Anna Mansurova: At Hellmann Healthcare Logistics, especially in the IMEA region, we work very closely with our customers through long-term distribution partnerships. This proximity allows us to jointly develop digital solutions that address real operational challenges, rather than isolated technology projects.

Use cases range from optimizing last-mile distribution models in fast-growing markets, integrating our systems with customers, including end to end supply chain Visability Platforms. In the warehouse operation we are exploring available opportunities that AI technology could bring for the process optimization. These solutions are practical, scalable, and closely tied to customer requirements.

Why are network-based platforms becoming more important?

Anna Mansurova: Healthcare supply chains are not linear. They involve manufacturers, logistics providers, hospitals, and regulators. Point-to-point integrations work in limited scenarios, but they do not scale well across complex ecosystems.

This is why network platforms such are so relevant. Such platforms (offered by specialized software solution providers), connect multiple stakeholders on a shared digital foundation and enable broader visibility and collaboration. From there, more advanced orchestration and agentic capabilities can evolve.

What advice would you give to companies starting their digital journey?

Anna Mansurova: Start with the basics. Make sure your data is clean, relevant, and consistently maintained. Define a clear use case and focus on solutions that create value for patients and the business.

Digitalization and AI should never be pursued just because they are trending topics. When the foundation is right, pilot projects can deliver tangible results and are patient focused this builds momentum for long-term transformation.

Visit our website or get in contact directly to explore how Hellmann Healthcare Logistics supports life sciences and healthcare companies with resilient, digitally enabled supply chain solutions.