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Information Technology and Informatics - Data Management and Analytics

(P-IT-7) Increasing Adoption and Implementation Strategies for 2-D Data Matrix Symbols on ISBT 128 Labels

Sunday, October 26, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  PT
Background/Case Studies: The ISBT 128 Standard is pivotal for the global identification, labeling, and transfer of information related to Medical Products of Human Origin (MPHO), including blood, milk, tissues, and cellular therapy products. While linear barcodes are routinely used on ISBT 128 labels, 2-D Data Matrix symbols offer increased data capacity and improved process efficiency as more data can be transferred in a single scan. This is particularly useful when relaying information about a product’s red blood cell antigen testing status. (See Figure A.) The 2-D Data Matrix symbology is well-implemented in other MPHO communities, especially on smaller MPHO labels, such as on cellular therapy and tissue products.

Study

Design/Methods: The global adoption of ISBT 128 2-D Data Matrix symbols on MPHO labels was evaluated based on developments reported to ICCBBA, the organization responsible for the development and maintenance of the ISBT 128 Standard.

Results/Findings: Adoption of 2-D Data Matrix symbols on blood product labels is growing, as evidenced by the following initiatives:


  • Australia: Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is currently planning to add 2-D Data Matrix symbology onto existing ISBT 128 transitional labels, which will then include ISBT 128 information in both linear bar codes as well as 2-D symbology, for all blood products for transfusion.

  • Denmark: In January 2024, the South Danish Transfusion Service & Tissue Center in Odense University Hospital upgraded their blood establishment computer system (BECS) and implemented 2-D Data Matrix symbology on all blood, tissue, and cellular therapy product labels used in all hospitals in the region of Southern Denmark. Their final product labels no longer include linear bar codes, except for the donation identification number (DIN). In 2027 the Data Matrix symbology will be implemented in the whole country.

  • United States: According to a 2023 report to ICCBBA’s technical advisory group, ATAG, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is 100% ready to receive blood labels containing 2-D Data Matrix symbols. While the VA is currently transitioning to a new EHR system, they implemented 2-D symbology scanning with a version upgrade to their BECS in March 2023.



Conclusions: Adoption of ISBT 128 2-D Data Matrix symbols on MPHO labels is growing. While progress has been made, ICCBBA will continue efforts to promote and support the widespread implementation of ISBT 128 2-D Data Matrix symbols to facilitate data exchange, optimize inventory management, and enhance patient safety.