From Box to Bedside: Unlocking Patient-Centric Care with Connected Packaging

25 September 2025

Pharmaceutical packaging is playing an increasing role in patient–centric care. The integration of smart 2D codes and connected digital platforms can provide a direct link between pharma manufacturers, healthcare providers, and patients. As Bart Vansteenkiste, Global Life Sciences Sector Manager, Domino Printing Sciences, explains, pharmaceutical packaging is not the end point of production but the starting point for more connected, patient-centric care.

Rethinking patient information leaflets

There is a growing recognition that pharma packaging design could play a key role in improving patient safety. For many patients, especially those managing multiple medications, the traditional patient information leaflet can be a source of frustration.

Complex language, lengthy instructions, and inconsistent translations can be confusing, contributing to avoidable risks in medication use. Recent research by the Western University of Health Sciences and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, USA, underlines the value of rethinking the leaflet format. Comparing electronic product information leaflets (ePIL) with traditional printed versions, the controlled study confirmed that ePIL significantly outperformed print on key criteria, including comprehension, convenience, and visual appeal.

Comprehension scores were markedly higher, particularly among patients with lower health literacy, highlighting the value of simplified language and intuitive design in improving understanding.

Digital leaflets can also enhance patient engagement. A simple scan of a smart 2D code on pharmaceutical packaging enables patients to access up-to-date, clear, and intuitive information in their preferred language. Additional features, such as instructional videos or audio leaflets, can further support understanding across diverse patient populations.

Supporting care through smarter connections

Connected packaging – achieved by embedding smart 2D codes that link to live data sources into pharma packaging design – can also improve patient safety throughout the healthcare system and overcomes traditional gaps in communication, from prescribing to dispensing. Providing healthcare professionals with easy access to the most current, batch-specific information on demand, helps to prevent the use of outdated instructions and promotes safer prescribing and dispensing decisions.

From a broader system perspective, connected packaging can also strengthen supply chain management. An efficient inline digital pharma packaging printing system can print richer, standardised data on every pack, supporting faster responses to recalls, improved product tracking and greater accuracy in dispensing. This combination of improved patient-level safety and supply chain efficiency demonstrates the broader value of connected packaging.

Momentum for change

While the benefits of connected packaging – from improved comprehension to enhanced safety – are increasingly clear, the shift toward digital solutions is not just theoretical. Across the pharmaceutical industry, stakeholders are actively exploring and implementing these innovations, signalling a broader momentum for change.

There is a growing commitment to connected packaging throughout the industry. In early 2025, leading European pharmaceutical trade associations recommended a phased rollout of the ePIL, proposing the removal of paper leaflets within four years. A proposal from the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) highlights the benefits of ePIL in improving accessibility through language customisation, multimedia content, more timely updates, and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, a study by GS1 confirms 82% of brand owners are in favour of transitioning to data-rich 2D codes, with many retailers aiming for this shift by 2027.

While the case for modernising patient information through digital, connected packaging is strong, it is vital to recognise that digital solutions are not yet universally accessible. Patients may lack internet access, a smartphone, or simply find themselves without a working device when critical dosage or safety information is needed. In the medium term, there is justification for printed and digital leaflets to coexist – ensuring inclusivity and safety while embracing the advantages of connected, patient-centric packaging.

Conclusion: Packaging as a platform for patient care

Connected packaging represents a significant step towards patient-centric healthcare. As digital tools become more embedded in healthcare, patients are increasingly taking an active role in managing their treatment. As one of the most consistent and tangible points of communication between manufacturers and patients, pharmaceutical packaging is a logical and practical platform for delivering timely, relevant information.

Connected packaging has the potential to make pharmaceutical care more responsive, personalised, and safe. By combining smart 2D codes with digital tools and connected platforms, manufacturers have a practical opportunity to improve access to information, reduce risks, and support patients more effectively throughout their treatment journey.

Pharmaceutical packaging manufacturers can now move beyond regulatory minimums and position packaging as a strategic asset in delivering better patient outcomes. From the packaging line to the point of care, connected packaging offers a tangible way to put patients first – improving safety, understanding and trust from box to bedside.

<ENDS>

Disclaimers

Inks
The information contained in this document is not intended as a substitute for undertaking appropriate testing for your specific use and circumstances. Neither Domino UK Limited nor any of Domino’s group of companies is in any way liable for any reliance that you may put on this document with regards to the suitability of any ink for your particular application. This document does not form part of any terms and conditions between you and Domino, Legal Disclaimers v.1.0 February 2018 and Domino’s Terms and Conditions of sale, and in particular the warranties and liabilities contained within them, shall apply to any purchase of products by you.

General
Information contained within this press release is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication by Domino, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact the accuracy of the information. All performance related figures and claims quoted in this document were obtained under specific conditions and may only be replicated under similar conditions. For specific product details, you should contact your Domino Sales Advisor. This document does not form part of any terms and conditions between you and Domino.

Imagery
Images may include optional extras or upgrades. Print quality may differ depending on consumables, printer, substrates, and other factors. Images and photographs do not form any part of any terms and conditions between you and Domino.

Videos
This video is illustrative only and may include optional extras. Performance figures obtained under specific conditions; individual performance may vary. Errors and downtime on production lines may be unavoidable. Nothing in this video forms part of any contract between you and Domino.

Notes to Editors:

About Domino

Since 1978, Domino Printing Sciences (Domino) has established a global reputation for the development and manufacture of coding, marking, and printing technologies, as well as its worldwide aftermarket products and customer services. Today, Domino offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios of complete end-to-end coding solutions designed to satisfy the compliance and productivity requirements of manufacturers across many sectors, including food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and industrial. The company’s core technologies include innovative inkjet, laser, print and apply, and thermal transfer overprinting systems designed for the application of variable data, barcodes, and unique traceability codes onto product and packaging.

Domino employs over 3,000 people worldwide and sells to more than 120 countries through a global network of 29 subsidiary offices and more than 200 distributors. Domino’s manufacturing facilities are located in China, Germany, India, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, and the USA.

Domino became an autonomous division within Brother Industries Ltd. on 11th June 2015.

For further information on Domino, please visit www.domino-printing.com or contact:

Alex Challinor
PR and Content Manager
Domino Printing Sciences
Tel: +44 (0) 1954 778780
Alex.Challinor@domino-uk.com

Jamie Robinson
Marketing Generalist
Domino North America
Tel: +1 636-673-3009
jamie.hinton@domino-na.com