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2D barcode in healthcare

GS1 DataMatrix for the identification of medical products

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

This aligns with implementation of regulatory requirements in more than 70 countries and with the WHO Policy in traceability of medical products

2D Barcode explorer healthcare

GS1 DataMatrix for the identification of medical products

GS1 DataMatrix

  • Small footprint on packaging

The data elements listed below and encoded in the GS1 DataMatrix ensure global harmonisation and interoperability. This information helps support authentication and traceability to fight falsified products, post market surveillance, improve medical outcomes and patient safety as well as digital health advancement. For Unique Device Identification (UDI), the GS1 DataMatrix is also used to capture the GTIN, batch/lot number, expiry or manufacturing date and the serial number (when relevant).

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 GS1 DataMatrix also fulfils requirements for UDI (Unique Device Identification).

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Manufacturers: The GS1 DataMatrix enhances compliance and traceability while streamlining recall and return processes. It also supports sustainability initiatives by reducing waste and can be leveraged to provide access to digital information online.

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Healthcare Provider: By scanning the GS1 DataMatrix, healthcare providers can improve inventory management, reduce medication errors, and integrate seamlessly with electronic health records (EHR). This not only enhances patient safety but also saves time by automating data entry and streamlining workflows.

Learn more about the key role of the GS1 DataMatrix barcode 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