Applications of barcode in the pharmaceutical industry

About Barcodes

A barcode is a sequence of characters represented by alternating black and white lines. Barcodes are the simplest and most effective solution for automated data storage and retrieval. There are two main types of barcodes: one-dimensional (1D) barcodes and two-dimensional (2D) barcodes. Read more: What is Barcode and its main application areas

In the pharmaceutical field, barcodes are not just tools for managing information but also a crucial part of quality control, safety, and integrated supply chain processes for the entire healthcare industry.

Benefits of Applying Barcodes in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Improving Medication Dispensing for Patients

Barcodes simplify providing medications to patients by accurately recording information about the type of medication, dosage, usage instructions, and expiration dates. When combined with patient records, healthcare professionals can access patient medical histories to avoid cases of medication resistance through contraindications encoded in barcodes or incorrect medication dispensing.

According to estimates, up to 800,000 medication dispensing errors annually worldwide, resulting in significant waste and serious consequences. When patients receive the correct type and dosage of medication, their health status is ensured, and the risk of incorrect prescription medication is reduced.

 

The process of verifying and using medication involves the following steps by a nurse:

• The nurse logs into the system by scanning the barcode on their employee ID card and entering a secure password.
• The nurse uses a barcode scanner to read information integrated into the patient's wristband.
• The nurse scans the prescribed medication. (Proventil 2.5 mg in 2.5 ml of normal saline every 3-4 hours).
• If all steps are accurately performed, the nurse signs the confirmation on the device and administers the medication to the patient. The system records the start time of medication usage and updates the electronic medical record.
• If any step is performed incorrectly, the system issues a warning (for example, if the medication does not match the prescribed prescription).

This operational method allows healthcare staff to optimize patient care by managing a wealth of information prone to confusion. Still, it empowers patients to actively grasp information such as dosages, prescriptions, and treatment costs through barcodes.

In Vietnam, all barcode solutions for the pharmaceutical sector, such as medication labels, test tube labels, blood bag labels, or patient wristbands, are manufactured and distributed by Ricoh Vietnam. With a commitment to quality products and reasonable prices, Ricoh takes pride in being a reliable partner for pharmaceutical and healthcare entities, contributing to community healthcare's overall development.

Managing and Tracking Products in the Supply Chain

Barcodes help track crucial information about expiration dates and batch production for each pharmaceutical product, ensuring that products manufactured and distributed adhere to usage regulations and quality.

From warehouse inventory to transportation and distribution, barcodes can ensure accurate product tracking, minimizing losses and gaps in the supply chain.

In case of quality or safety issues, tracking specific batch production information allows quick identification and recall of faulty products.

Combating Counterfeit and Substandard Products

The pharmaceutical market is competitive and dynamic, accompanied by the prevalence of counterfeit and substandard products. Ensuring the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products is of utmost importance. Barcodes serve as an effective tool to prevent counterfeit products of unclear origin and low-quality products.

Thanks to encoded information, consumers and manufacturers can verify the origin and quality of products, ensuring that patients only use genuinely safe and effective products.

With continuous development, barcodes will continue to play a significant role in preventing counterfeiting in the future through intelligent applications and the integration of new security technologies, offering even higher efficiency in protecting products and consumers.

A Bright Future for Applying Barcodes in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Barcodes are constantly evolving to align with technological advancements and the needs of the pharmaceutical sector. More innovative barcode systems that can interact with smartphones or even incorporate artificial intelligence are being researched to provide a better experience for consumers and the pharmaceutical industry.

Conclusion

Barcodes are not just a means of storing and representing information; they are tools for management, tracking, and process optimization in the pharmaceutical industry. From ensuring product quality to preventing counterfeiting, barcodes offer significant and considerable benefits and will undoubtedly continue to develop.

Request the consultation

Contact Ricoh Vietnam for a free consultation and guidance on implementing barcode solutions via [email protected] or +84 28 3528 5252