Product serialization and Electronic Product Code Information Systems (EPCIS) event exchange have improved traceability in healthcare supply chains, but packaging‑based identifiers can still be copied or separated from the actual item. This session explains how manufacturer‑applied, hardware‑backed digital anchors tie GS1 identifiers directly to each product, strengthening the connection between digital records and physical goods. Attendees will see how item‑level identity reduces confusion during handoffs and returns, improves verification, and speeds up issue resolution while maintaining interoperability across partners.