Coding for Success: Simple technology for safer patient care
Department of Health

"New guidance to promote and support use of auto identification
(barcoding and similar technologies) to increase patient safety and
improve efficiency has been launched. There is evidence of real
improvements to patient safety when coding systems are used to match
patients to their care – reduced medication errors, reduced risk of
wrong site surgery, accurate track and trace of surgical instruments,
equipment and other devices and much better record keeping. Using
coding to manage supplies and purchasing electronically can cut costs
dramatically as well as improve efficiency. This document has been
written in partnership with DH, NPSA, MHRA, CfH and PASA. It
recommends both industry and NHS adopt the GS1 system of coding
standards and sets out an action plan that supports both NHS and
industry."

http://www.dh.gov.uk/assetRoot/04/14/30/10/04143010.pdf

Jonathan