Verification Router Services for the DSCSA
What is VRS?
Verification Routing Services (VRS) help route product verification requests to the correct manufacturer. It involves three main components:
- Requesters: Wholesalers or dispensers who need to verify products for legitimacy or returns
- Responders: Manufacturers or repackagers who have serialized and released the product
- Lookup Directory (LD): A database that translates Global Trade Item Number (GTINs) product codes into responder addresses
The Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA) VRS Provider Network features a list of tested and validated VRS providers to ensure reliable and compliant product verification.
Verification vs. Traceability
Verification involves checking against the official manufacturing database to confirm product authenticity, recall status or extended expiration dates. Traceability is different as it only verifies products from a provided list, not against the full manufacturing database.
Authorized Trading Partners (ATP)
Requests and responses should only be exchanged between authorized trading partners (ATP). Since requesters and responders may not be direct partners, electronic identification can be provided by Spherity through their product CARO and LedgerDomain through their product XATP.
The Role of VRS in Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) Compliance
Responders are required to reply to verification requests within 24 hours and must confirm the requester's ATP status. If the product is not in their possession, responders may opt not to respond. Although the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) does not mandate the use of electronic verification systems, many responders utilize VRS solutions. Verification is necessary for:
- Saleable returns
- Suspect or illegitimate products
- Exceptions related to the product
- Product status checks
Challenges with VRS
- GTIN Record Management: All GTINs must be listed in the LD for requesters to receive responses.
- Lookup Directory Management: There is no central LD managed by the government. Instead, it is managed by multiple VRS providers that synchronize their directories.
- Synchronization and GTIN Management: Responder organizations must use a VRS provider with a synchronized LD that supports GTIN uploads and maintains serial number records. Responses should be made within 1 second using the GS1 lightweight messaging standard, with 24/7 availability for both the LD and server.
- Routing and Connection: Requesters should choose a VRS provider with a synchronized LD that connects to other LDs, ensuring updated routing information for accurate request handling.
- ATP Credentialing: Participants are advised to support ATP credential creation and verification.
Movilitas.Cloud: Achieve Compliance Requirements in Just a Few Steps
Movilitas.Cloud, developed by Engineering Industries eXcellence, is a cutting-edge Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that enables enterprises to easily serialize, track and trace products across global supply chains while ensuring regulatory compliance. It facilitates seamless onboarding of suppliers, distributors and partners to enhance product safety and authenticity. The platform integrates smoothly with national authorities and enterprise systems, supporting serialization, aggregation and logistics processes for a wide range of stakeholders across industries.
Key Features
- Complete VRS solution provider
- Own Lookup Directory
- Full responder functionality based on EPCIS data
- Verification functionality
- Mobile app for scanning (iOS, Android, browsers)
- Full API integration for external scanning solutions
- Reporting and analysis tools
Key Benefits
- Gateway Certified
- HDA VRS Provider Network member
- Reliable SaaS, validated for pharmaceuticals and life sciences
- Flexible monthly contracts with a 30-day free cancellation period if not satisfied
- Compliance achievable within 1 hour post-registration
- Easy compliance for responders by uploading EPCIS files and registering GTINs
Additional Capabilities
- EPCIS Transaction Information (TI) & Transaction Statement (TS) Exchanges: Manage receipts from suppliers and generate files for clients, with easy client access via email invitations
- TI & TS Trace Request Mechanism: Efficiently handle trace requests
- Enterprise Resource Management (ERP) & Warehouse Management System (WMS) Integration: Seamlessly connect with ERP and WMS systems through our APIs and webhooks
- Exception Handling: Integrated processes for managing exceptions, including supplier communication and corrective GS1 EPCIS messages for shipping issues
