Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the drug "QR code settlement" system nationwide marks a significant shift in drug regulation and consumer protection in the pharmaceutical industry, enhancing traceability and accountability in drug sales and distribution [1][3][6]. Group 1: Implementation and Impact - As of July 1, 2025, all pharmacies and medical institutions must scan drug traceability codes for insurance reimbursement, with non-compliance leading to inability to process payments [1][3]. - The National Medical Insurance Administration has collected 41.828 billion traceability code records, covering over 99% of medical institutions, with approximately 5 million consumers checking drug authenticity daily [3][4]. - The transition period until the end of 2025 allows for the management of existing non-coded drugs, but by January 1, 2026, all institutions must fully implement traceability code collection [4][6]. Group 2: Consumer Protection and Awareness - The traceability code serves as an "electronic ID" for each drug, ensuring that each code is unique and can only be scanned once for sale, helping to identify counterfeit or returned drugs [3][4]. - Consumers are encouraged to verify the traceability codes and avoid purchasing drugs without them, enhancing their role in monitoring drug safety [4][5]. Group 3: Industry Challenges and Costs - The new regulations may lead to short-term cost increases for pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies due to the need for system upgrades and compliance with new operational processes [5][7]. - Pharmacies and medical institutions must invest in technology to ensure compliance with the traceability code requirements, which may disproportionately affect smaller entities [7][8]. Group 4: Long-term Benefits - The traceability system is expected to combat the issue of "returned drugs," thereby protecting market order and enhancing brand reputation for pharmaceutical companies [8]. - In the long run, the traceability code system is anticipated to improve the overall health and sustainability of the pharmaceutical industry by ensuring quality and safety in drug distribution [8].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles emphasizes the implementation of a drug traceability code system, which is mandatory for all pharmacies and medical institutions in China, affecting the entire pharmaceutical supply chain [1][2][4] - The traceability code serves as an "electronic ID" for each drug, ensuring that each box of medicine has a unique scan record, which helps in identifying counterfeit or returned drugs [2][3] - As of June 16, 2023, the national medical insurance platform has collected 41.828 billion traceability code records, covering over 99% of medical institutions, with approximately 5 million consumers checking drug authenticity daily [2][3] Group 2 - The new system will transition to a "scan for settlement" model by July 1, 2025, and full traceability code coverage is expected by January 1, 2026, marking a significant shift in drug distribution and medical insurance regulation [2][4][5] - The introduction of the traceability code is expected to increase compliance costs for pharmacies and medical institutions, as they will need to upgrade systems and processes to ensure proper scanning and data collection [6][7] - The traceability code is anticipated to help pharmaceutical companies combat the issue of "returned drugs," thereby protecting brand reputation and maintaining profit margins, while also promoting sustainable development in the industry [7]