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2D barcodes in healthcare

GS1 DataMatrix for the identification of medical products

In Regulated Healthcare, the determination of which barcode is placed on a product is often determined by regulation.

For product identification and traceability purposes, GS1 DataMatrix remains the 2D data carrier of choice. This ensures the globally harmonised identification of products and facilitates implementations for all stakeholders. The QR Code shall NOT be used for product identification.

2D Barcode explorer healthcare

GS1 DataMatrix for the identification of medical products

GS1 DataMatrix

  • Small footprint on packaging

The data elements listed below are the four most encoded in a GS1 DataMatrix on medical products. This information helps support traceability and Unique Device Identification (UDI) regulation, post market surveillance, improve medical outcomes and patient safety as well as digital health advancement. When used to implement pharmaceuticals traceability requirements it can also help identify falsified products.

GTIN: (01)09504000059118

Batch/lot number: (10)7654321D

Expiration date: (17)141120

Serial number: (21)10987654d32

Discover the opportunities with GS1 DataMatrix

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Health Authorities: GS1 DataMatrix fulfils medicines traceability regulations in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, Europe, India, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, USA and many others – in total in more than 75 countries around the world. The GS1DM is also one of the data carriers of choice and often used by manufacturers for Unique Device Identification (UDI).

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Manufacturer: GS1 DataMatrix enables traceability, simplify recall and return processes. It can also support sustainability initiatives and reduce waste. It can also be used to provide access to digital information on the web.

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Healthcare Provider: By scanning GS1 DataMatrix healthcare providers can improve inventory management, reduce medication errors. It results in increased patient safety.

Learn more about the key role of GS1 DataMatrix barcodes for product identification in healthcare

Examples from around the world

Ethiopia: Laying foundations to fight substandard and falsified medicines
Healthcare
Using GS1 standards to trace surgical and dental instruments
Keeping track of many surgical instruments by visual inspection presented problems from a risk manag...
Dubai Health Authority implements GS1 standards to empower automated pharmacies
Healthcare
Dubai Health Authority implements GS1 standards to empower automated pharmacies
Before the adoption of GS1 standards, DHA did not have a barcoding system in place and was therefore...
GS1 Digital Link helps deliver valuable e-leaflet information to healthcare providers and patients
Healthcare
GS1 Digital Link helps deliver valuable e-leaflet information to healthcare providers and ...
In November 2019, amendments were made by the Japanese government to the Pharmaceuticals and Medical...

Find out more

Use of GS1 DataMatrix as the 2D carrier in Healthcare

Refer to the Public Policy and Healthcare website for more information on the many countries which require GS1 DataMatrix in local regulations

GS1 DataMatrix Technical guidelines