Having more than one symbol on a product creates challenges in the care-giving environment, for example: the time taken to identify which symbol to scan, the impact of the wrong symbol being scanned, the ability of the scanner to scan and decode only one symbol when in close proximity to another etc., these have potential to impact patient safety.
This is why GS1 Healthcare advocates for ONE barcode symbol to be placed on product packaging. In order to fulfil various needs, GS1 is enabling a GS1 DataMatrix that not only can contain the GTIN, batch/lot number, expiry date and unique serial number, but will also offer the possibility to hold a URL link.
GS1 Healthcare has adopted the use of GS1 DataMatrix as the data carrier (barcode symbol) of choice.
GS1 DataMatrix is a 2-dimensional (2D) barcode symbology that:
- allows the encoding and marking of a greater amount of data within a smaller space
- enables direct part marking of trade items where labels may not be practical (small medical / surgical instruments)
- provides error detection and correction capabilities to improve the readability of bar codes despite irregular packaging or physical damage to a label
- was already in both active production and “pilot” use within the Healthcare supply chain before QR Code was officially approved for initial Extended Packaging use within the GS1 System.
For more information please refer to the document titled "The key role of GS1 DataMatrix barcodes for product identification in healthcare" -https://www.gs1.org/docs/healthcare/position-papers/GS1-DataMatrix-Position-Paper-FINAL.pdf
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