Business updates

The new standard outlines requirements for the accurate and consistent description and identification of medical devices for al clinical and supply chain purposes in New Zealand.  The approach is to extend to the medical device domain the same identification principles and standards that have existed in New Zealand since 2011, for medicines.

In summary, two international standards have been adopted:

• Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) for medical device identification in the supply chain and for product traceability

• SNOMED CT for medical device terminology in clinical documentation and clinical decision support

Megan Main, Chief Executive, New Zealand Health Partnerships said that it is an exciting milestone for New Zealand to have formally adopted global standards for medical device terminology and identification.

‘’Key to success will be a clear road map to full adoption which takes into account the changes required throughout the supply chain in order for benefits to be realised’’, said Megan.

The standards will ensure that medical devices can be properly catalogued, ordered, distributed and tracked.