RFID Pharma Pilot: Global Drug Security Network

11/15/2004

An RFID pilot project devoted solely to the pharmaceutical supply chain is up and running, and it is welcoming drug firms who wish to start or accelerate their own pilot projects.

The Drug Security Network, a joint initiative begun by consulting firm CapGemini and SupplyScape, a maker of e-pedigree software for the pharmaceutical industry, allows for the exchange of secure electronic pedigree documents over the Internet by supply chain partners. Each partner in the Network sends, receives and manages its e-pedigree documents over the secure, open system, enabling the tracking of each owner of every drug as it moves through the supply chain. Using hardware and software from SupplyScape, Sun Microsystems, ADT Security Systems and VeriSign, the Network is designed to comply with FDA recommendations as well as strict regulations already imposed by Florida and other states.

Companies can also test drive their own pilot plans using the Network’s supply chain. They can do this at their own facilities, or by using the RFID Center for Excellence at CapGemini’s facilities in Cambridge, Mass.