We analyzed 128,573 electronic records of vaccines administered at 32 facilities. We compared the accuracy of records entered using 2D barcode scanning with those entered using traditional methods using chi-square tests and multilevel logistic regression.
When 2D barcodes were scanned, lot number data accuracy was 1.8 percentage points higher (94.3–96.1%, P < 0.001) and expiration date data accuracy was 11 percentage points higher (84.8–95.8%, P < 0.001) compared with traditional methods. In multivariate analysis, lot number was more likely to be accurate (aOR = 1.75; 99% CI, 1.57–1.96) as was expiration date (aOR = 2.39; 99% CI, 2.12–2.68). When controlling for scanning and other factors, manufacturer, month vaccine was administered, and vaccine type were associated with variation in accuracy for both lot number and expiration date.
Two-dimensional barcode scanning shows promise for improving data accuracy of vaccine lot number and expiration date records. Adapting systems to further integrate with 2D barcoding could help increase adoption of 2D barcode scanning technology.