Joint Statement: National Drug Coding System Needed

The Australian Medical Association (AMA), the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) and the Medical Software Industry Association (MSIA) today called on the Federal Government to implement a national pharmaceutical coding system as a matter of urgency.

A national coding system would allocate a unique electronic identifier code to each drug and would ensure the security and efficacy of the electronic transfer of prescriptions and electronic medication management systems.

Information technology is increasingly being embraced by the health sector to improve the delivery of health services to Australian patients. A national drug coding system would be a key part of this process.

A single coding system for prescription drugs and other therapies is a pre-requisite for safer, more efficient information systems in the health sector.

The AMA, the PGA and the MSIA recommend that the Australian system should be based on the European Article Numbers (EAN) system. EAN is endorsed by the Medicines Coding Council of Australia (MCCA).

To ensure the smooth implementation of an Australian coding system, the Federal Government should provide funding to allow the MCCA to manage the process.

The AMA, the PGA and the MSIA are dedicated to utilising information technology to improve the information systems that underpin the Australian health care system.

CONTACTS: AMA, Dr Allan Zimet (0418) 543 700

PGA, Mr Vasken Demirian (0402) 346 536

MSIA, Dr Andrew Magennis (0417) 135 302