Getting Started

This guide will help you get started with managing your healthcare supplies efficiently. Follow these steps to set up the app and start tracking your inventory.

System Requirements

• Android: Android 12 or higher (API 31+)
• iOS: iOS 13 or higher
• Web: Modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
• Windows: Windows 10 or higher
• Camera: Required for barcode scanning
• Storage: Approximately 100MB for app and data

Step 1: Install the App

Download Healthcare Supply Manager from the App Store or the Google Play Store and install it on your device.

Step 2: Grant Permissions

When you first open the app, you'll be asked to grant the following permissions:

• Camera: Required for scanning barcodes. Without this permission, the scanning feature won't work.
• Notifications: Optional but recommended for receiving expiration alerts.

Tip: You can manage permissions later in your device's Settings › Apps › Healthcare Supply Manager › Permissions.

Step 3: Explore the Dashboard

The main dashboard shows an overview of your inventory:

• Total Items: Count of all tracked supplies
• Expiring Soon: Items approaching their expiration date
• Expired: Items past their expiration date
• Low Stock: Items below minimum quantity threshold

Step 4: Set Up Locations

Organize your inventory by creating locations:

1. Tap the menu icon (three lines) or swipe from the left
2. Select "Locations"
3. Tap the + button to add a new location
4. Enter a name (e.g., "Supply Room A", "Emergency Cart")
5. Optionally add a description
6. Tap "Save"

Step 5: Scan Your First Item

1. Tap the camera/scan icon on the bottom navigation
2. Point your camera at a product barcode
3. The app will automatically detect and decode the barcode
4. Review the scanned information
5. Select a location and quantity
6. Tap "Add to Inventory"

Note: The app supports GS1 healthcare barcodes which contain product ID (GTIN), lot number, expiration date, and serial number. Standard retail barcodes will only provide the product ID.

Step 6: Configure Alert Settings

Set up expiration alerts to never miss important dates:

1. Open Settings from the navigation menu
2. Find "Expiration Alerts"
3. Enable notifications
4. Set your preferred warning threshold (30, 60, or 90 days)

Next Steps

Now that you're set up, explore these features:

• Learn about advanced scanning modes
• Manage your inventory effectively
• Configure expiration alerts