Title: RFID is no fake: the adoption of radio frequency identification technology in the pharmaceutical supply chain

Authors: David C. Wyld, Michael A. Jones

Addresses: Southeastern Louisiana University, Department of Management, Hammond, LA 70402-0350, USA. ' Supply Management/Logistics Initiative, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA 70402, USA

Abstract: This article examines the adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in the pharmaceutical supply chain to address the unique challenges this industry faces. Two major issues in drug distribution are medical errors in administration of drugs and the recent growth of counterfeit drugs. Due to its promise in addressing these and other issues, the pharmaceutical industry has become a leader in the adoption of RFID technology. Recommendations from Federal and state agencies and mandates from major retailers are discussed, which are influencing the adoption of RFID. The article provides a description of the role RFID technology can play in preventing counterfeit drugs from entering the supply chain and in controlling pharmaceutical stocks in the retail supply chain, in health care facilities and in supplies of sample drugs. It is demonstrated that over the long-term, RFID will be the adopted by the pharmaceutical industry to promote security, safety and efficiency.

Keywords: counterfeiting; medical errors; pharmaceutical distribution; radio frequency identification; RFID; supply chain management; SCM; information systems; visibility; drug distribution; counterfeit drugs; security; safety.

DOI: 10.1504/IJISM.2007.011974

International Journal of Integrated Supply Management, 2007 Vol.3 No.2, pp.156 - 171

Published online: 07 Jan 2007 *

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