History of the VRS

Ahead of the implementation of the DSCSA's saleable returns requirements in 2019, HDA, worked alongside Ernst & Young LLP and HDA’s Traceability Pilots Work Group (work group), to evaluate real-life scenarios and methods in a pilot program. The pilot program's goal was to assess the scenarios' impact on manufacturers and wholesale distributors in terms of processes, cost, work and technology.

The work group, after careful consideration, recommended the use of a verification router service (VRS) as one of two cost-effective and viable approaches. These methods, the VRS and ATP, were believed to be practical solutions to help pharmaceutical manufacturers and wholesale distributors comply with the DSCSA requirements for verifying saleable returns.

What sets the VRS apart is its requirement for two-way, synchronous communication, a feature that enhances effectiveness and efficiency.

After hearing feedback from numerous participants in the VRS, HDA created the VRS Provider Network (PN) as a forum for pharmaceutical supply chain thought leaders on technology-based solutions and innovation, to network with peers and regulatory officials, participate in meetings, and exchange information that advances ongoing interoperability for DSCSA compliance.