Enhancing the information transmission for pharmaceutical supply chain based on radio frequency identification (RFID) and internet of things

Abstract

Information transmission is one of the important features desired in pharmaceutical supply chain. But, at the same time, it is a challenge task as there is an information transmission lag in the existing model of supply chain management. The need of supply chain visibility and transparency in pharmaceutical industry has increased tremendously with the emerging auto-identification technologies. The motivation to introduce auto-identification technologies could be to gain rapid benefits in visualization of supply chain information. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and EPC can be used to meet this attempt. With the advent of accurate and reliable information transmission, various supply chain concepts, such as adaptive logistics management, virtual warehouse, and counterfeit combat can be achieved. The main aim of this paper is to outline the possibility of applying RFID and Internet of Things in enhancing the pharmaceutical supply chain information transmission. Based on the study, benefits and issues related to such technologies integration are discussed.