Counterfeit and grey-market consumables are a real risk for hospitals. A fake cannula or a glove that was stored badly can harm a patient and create trouble in an audit. Most problems can be caught at the receiving desk in a few minutes, if your team knows what to look for.
1. Read the full label
Under India's Medical Devices Rules, a device label should show the product name, the manufacturer's name and address, the licence number, the batch or lot number, and the manufacturing and expiry dates. Imported products should also show the importer's details. If any of these are missing, smudged or covered by a sticker, put the box aside and ask questions.
2. Check sterile packs carefully
For sterile items, the pack should say it is sterile and how it was sterilised. Look for torn or wrinkled seals, moisture and faded printing. A damaged sterile barrier means the item is no longer sterile, whatever the label says.
3. Compare with a known good pack
Keep one empty box from a trusted batch. Compare the print quality, colours, fonts, logo and spelling. Fakes often get small things wrong: a blurred logo, a misspelt word, a different shade of the brand colour.
4. Match the invoice to the box
The batch number and expiry on the invoice should match the stock you received. The invoice should carry your supplier's GSTIN and full address. A price far below the usual rate is a warning sign, not a bargain.
5. Ask for the supplier's licences
Your supplier should hold a valid drug licence for medicines, and the state registration to sell medical devices (Form MD-42). Keep copies on file and note their expiry dates. A reliable distributor shares these without fuss.
6. Verify with the brand when in doubt
Many manufacturers print a QR code, helpline or website for checking batches. If something still looks wrong, contact the manufacturer and report suspected fakes to your state drugs control department.