Understanding DSCSA: A Quick Guide for Independent Pharmacies

1. Introduction to DSCSA

The Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA), a U.S. law, is designed to increase the security and efficiency of the drug supply chain. With a looming deadline of November 27, 2023, it is critical for all pharmacies to comply. As the pharmaceutical industry evolves towards secure, electronic, and interoperable drug product tracing, understanding DSCSA becomes pivotal to ensure safe medication delivery.

2. DSCSA Compliance: A Shared Responsibility

In this journey towards a secure supply chain, everyone – from manufacturers and wholesalers to dispensers – has a role to play. 

As a dispenser:

1. Final Point of Contact: You are the last checkpoint, ensuring only legitimate, FDA-approved drugs reach patients.
2. Maintaining Integrity: DSCSA isn’t merely about prevention; it’s about detection. Your role in identifying counterfeit drugs is crucial.
3. Recall Efficiency: Being DSCSA-compliant, you can swiftly trace and remove recalled products, minimizing potential harm.
4. Trust & Accountability: Compliance builds credibility with patients and regulators, while non-compliance could damage trust and lead to legal penalties.

3. Understanding DSCSA Better

To prepare for the upcoming changes, explore these relevant topics:

• Tracking Ownership with Global Location Numbers (GLNs): The industry is using GLNs for secure and electronic product transactions. These 13-digit numbers provide visibility into product locations and transaction parties. Visit the GS1 website to find or obtain your GLN.
• Verifying Product Legitimacy with 2D Barcodes: DSCSA mandates each saleable unit to have a unique 2D barcode, including the National Drug Code (NDC), lot number, drug expiration date, and a unique serial number. This barcode helps to trace suspect medications and ensure only legitimate products arrive at the dispenser.

4. Why DSCSA Matters to Your Pharmacy

1. Patient Safety: DSCSA helps prevent counterfeit and stolen drugs, thus protecting your patients.
2. Supply Chain Transparency: The Act provides a clear view of the drug supply chain, ensuring only authentic, FDA-approved drugs reach patients.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Non-compliance with DSCSA could lead to significant fines, reputational harm, and business disruption.

5. A New Required Procedure for your Pharmacy

Starting November 27, 2023, the DSCSA requires that all dispensers scan each package received from your wholesaler or manufacturer to verify that the serial number is legitimate before it can be received by your pharmacy software and placed on the shelf or dispensed to a patient.  Verification software providers are available that provide an affordable and simple solution.  Contact MatchRX customer service at 877-590-0808 or customerservice@matchrx.com for more information.

6. Simplifying Compliance: LSPedia’s Pharmacy Pro Solution

Pharmacy Pro is a turnkey tool designed to manage DSCSA requirements. It streamlines operations and ensures 100% compliance with the law.

Key Features:

1. Interoperability: Handles serialized data for every purchase order, ensuring seamless supply chain communication.
2. Enhanced Security: Matches the product to data upon receiving and notifies the sender of discrepancies.
3. Product Verification: Verifies the authenticity of suspect and illegitimate Rx products.
4. Reporting: Can provide product tracing documentation within 48 hours.
5. FDA 3911 Reporting: Promptly reports any illegitimate drug products within 24 hours.
6. Authorized Trading Partners: Ensures that products are sourced from authorized trading partners with verified licenses.

7. Pharmacy Pro’s Impact on Your Processes

Pharmacy Pro simplifies DSCSA compliance by automating essential processes:

1. Product Identification & Verification: Automatically identifies and verifies products.
2. Transaction Records: Maintains transaction data for six years.
3. Suspect Product Investigation: Identifies, alerts, and resolves discrepancies.
4. Notification & Reporting: Simplifies FDA notification and reporting processes.
5. Management of Expiring Drugs: Alerts you about soon-to-expire products.
6. Integration with Business Systems: Ensures seamless data flow between connected systems.

9. Your Path to DSCSA Compliance with MatchRX and LSPedia

1. Exclusive Offer: Use Code MATCHRX2023 for FREE access to OneScan Pharmacy Pro until October 31, 2023.
2. Special Rate: Enjoy an exclusive MatchRX rate of $75/month following the free trial, marking a 25% savings.
3. Register Today: Ensure MATCHRX2023 is entered in the Corporate Code field during registration.
4. Timely Action: Subscribe now and leverage our unique offer for a head start on DSCSA compliance.
5. Sign Up: Visit https://www.lspedia.com/matchrx.

DSCSA compliance is not just a legal requirement; it is an essential part of your pharmacy’s future. Using a solution like Pharmacy Pro, you can ensure compliance and safety for your patients, and focus on what you do best – providing exceptional care.