QR Code enhances privacy and convenience for prescriptions
By Stephanie Walek, Pharmacist
A new era of convenience and privacy is coming to Veterans receiving prescriptions from the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.
Starting in 2026, the traditional multi-page medication information sheets will be replaced with a simple, secure QR code printed directly on prescription bottles.
Why the Change? Each prescription has traditionally included two-six pages of printed information — often containing personal details like addresses and medication information. These papers are frequently never read and quickly discarded in the first waste bin available.
“Many patients request that we shred their paperwork when picking up their prescriptions at the pharmacy,” said Stephanie Walek, Outpatient Pharmacy Program Manager. “We also find discarded paperwork in trash cans throughout the VA facility, which may put their personal information at risk.”
With the new system, the QR code links only to drug information, so no personal data is embedded. Veterans can scan the code with a smart device to view medication details instantly. No login or account creation is required.
“The QR code shares an informative short video about the medication they are taking,” said Walek. “It also includes instructional videos for inhalers and injectables, which is a wonderful new feature.”
Tom Cocchiarella, a Vietnam-era Veteran who served as a weapons control systems specialist on F-4 Phantom Fighter Bombers in the Air Force from 1971-1975, is excited about the transition to providing medication information digitally. After his time in the service, he developed an extensive career in electronics, computers, project management, and management in information technology. Cocchiarella said, “With no patient information tied to the QR code, patient safety is greatly enhanced.”
He is also thrilled to have access to his medication information 24 hours, 7 days a week. “It will be great to have my medication information digitally, especially when I go to visit my daughter in Los Angeles, CA,” Cocchiarella said.
Do you prefer printed information? No problem. Veterans can request paper copies at any time — pharmacy staff can print them on demand with a single click.
QR codes will be phased in gradually, with full implementation expected by May of 2026. Mail-order prescriptions and civilian retail pharmacies will still include printed paperwork unless they adopt similar systems. Information will be available in English and Spanish.
Not only does the QR code provide medication information and a link to the patient’s medication information, but it also saves a ton of paper. The Minneapolis VA typically goes through 40 cases of paper each month — add in the cost of toner cartridges, and that will be nearly $3,000 saved each month.