Advancing Patient Safety Surrounding Medical Devices: Barriers, Strategies, and Next Steps in Health System Implementation of Unique Device Identifiers

BACKGROUND: The requirement for medical device manufacturers to label their devices with a unique device identifier (UDI) was formalized by the 2013 US Food and Drug Administration Unique Device Identification System Rule. However, parallel regulatory requirement for US health systems to use UDIs, particularly the electronic documentation of UDIs during patient care is lacking. Despite the lack of regulation, some health systems have implemented and are using UDIs. To assess the current state, we studied representative health system UDI implementation experiences, including barriers and the strategies to overcome them, and identified next steps to advance UDI adoption. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were performed with health system personnel involved in UDI implementation in their cardiac catheterization labs or operating rooms. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the framework methodology of Ritchie and Spencer. An expert panel evaluated findings and informed barriers, strategies, and next steps. RESULTS: Twenty-four interviews at ten health systems were performed. Identified barriers were internal (lack of organizational support, information technology gaps, clinical resistance) and external (information technology vendor resistance, limitations in manufacturer support, gaps in reference data, lack of an overall UDI system). Identified strategies included relationship building, education, engagement, and communication. Next steps to advance UDI adoption focus on education, research, support, and policy. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Delineation of UDI implementation barriers and strategies provides guidance and support for health systems to adopt the UDI standard and electronically document UDIs during clinical care. Next steps illuminate critical areas for attention to advance UDI adoption and achieve a comprehensive UDI system in health care to strengthen patient care and safety.