What does the acronym NDC stand for in healthcare information systems?

The acronym NDC stands for National Drug Code, which is a unique identifier assigned to medications in the United States. The NDC is a crucial component of healthcare information systems because it facilitates the identification and tracking of drugs within the healthcare system, including their formulation, packaging, and manufacturer information. The format of the NDC includes three segments that provide important details about the drug, such as the labeler code, the product code, and the package code. This standardized classification supports various administrative and billing processes, enhances accuracy in medication dispensing, and improves safety by allowing for better monitoring of drug usage and potential adverse effects.

The National Drug Code is particularly important for health information systems as it ensures that all parties involved—such as healthcare providers, pharmacies, and insurance companies—use a consistent reference for medications, which helps reduce errors and improve patient care. Additionally, the NDC is useful for drug recalls, safety alerts, and clinical decision support systems by providing a clear reference to specific drugs in electronic health records and other health information applications.