LSPedia and collaborators carry out DSCSA exceptions pilot
In January 2023, LSPedia conducted a pilot program to develop improved solutions and processes for DSCSA exceptions management in the supply chain. The pilot program featured participants and observers from across the prescription drug supply chain. This program was designed to achieve system-agnostic, actionable findings on the complex data errors that can halt the flow of product any time it changes hands.
Exceptions are data errors that occur when a shipped product can’t be accepted due to incorrect data, missing data, missing product, or discrepancies with the shipment. These errors can halt product movement, add complexity, and increase staff workloads, boosting labor and costs. The delays they cause can keep medicines from reaching patients.
Since November 2023, data needs to accompany regulated pharmaceutical products every time it changes hands. This led to an explosion in EPCIS file exchanges and exceptions increased right along with them. To prevent these disruptions, LSPedia collaborated across the industry, launched and led this pilot program designed to foster deep understanding of new problem scenarios before they occur widely, in order to define the solutions, procedures, and best practices to keep prescription drugs moving through the supply chain.
This pilot provided agnostic exceptions solutions for the entire supply chain, along with targeted processes and procedures for different business types. It covered a range of issues with EPCIS data, data exchanges, and logistics, incorporating the exceptions categories found in HDA’s “Exceptions Guidelines for the DSCSA.” Which included product without data, data without product, packaging or labeling problems, and other discrepancies.
The group compiled a comprehensive list of error scenarios and design methods to resolve them. Metrics were developed to evaluate each method, reach consensus on how they should be applied, and recommend best practices.
Our DSCSA exceptions management pilot was a crucial step in ensuring compliance with the regulations by bringing together industry leaders, real EPCIS data, and effective resolutions. By testing and refining solutions with actual data and input from industry leaders, pilot participants collaborated to develop a comprehensive and effective solution that helps companies maintain DSCSA compliance and improve the efficiency of their supply chain operations.