Title: Reviewing the drivers and challenges in RFID implementation in the pharmaceutical supply chain

Authors: Mazen S. Matalka, John K. Visich, Suhong Li

Addresses: King Hussein Institute for Biotechnology and Cancer, P.O. Box 144756, Amman 11184, Jordan. ' Bryant University, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917, USA. ' Bryant University, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917, USA

Abstract: Counterfeiting is a global phenomenon that poses serious financial threats to the pharmaceutical industry and, more importantly, jeopardises public safety and security. Different measures, including new laws and regulations, have been put in place to mitigate the threat and tighten control in the pharmaceuticals supply chain. However, it appears that the most promising countermeasure is track-and-trace technology such as Electronic-pedigree (E-pedigree) with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. In this study we present a framework exploring the antecedents and consequences of RFID applications in the pharmaceutical supply chain. The framework proposes that counterfeiting and E-pedigree regulation will drive the implementation of RFID in the pharmaceutical supply chain, which in turn provides strategic and operational benefits that enable competitive advantage. Meanwhile, the implementation of RFID requires overcoming many operational, technical and financial challenges. The framework provides a springboard that future study can explore using empirical data.

Keywords: e-pedigree; electronic pedigree; RFID implementation; radio frequency identification; counterfeit pharmaceuticals; pharmaceutical supply chains; supply chain management; SCM.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEB.2009.028152

International Journal of Electronic Business, 2009 Vol.7 No.5, pp.473 - 490

Published online: 10 Sep 2009 *

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