Cost-benefit analysis of paper-plastic packaging materials and medical non-woven fabrics

Abstract

Objective To analyze the cost composition of paper-plastic packaging materials and medical non-woven fabrics applied in sterilization treatment packages in the supply room, in order to reduce health-care costs and medical costs and provide guidance for the control of nosocomial infection. Methods In Ningbo City Medical Treatment Center Lihuili Hospital, the single consumption cost composition and the total cost (retrospective material) of disposable medical non-woven packaging materials (bags for removing stitches) used from January 2014 to October 2014 and paper-plastic packaging materials (bags for removing stitches) used from January 2015 and October 2015 were compared and analyzed. Results The single consumption cost of paper-plastic packaging materials (0.21 yuan) was lower than disposable medical non-woven packaging materials. The total cost of paper-plastic packaging materials used in the hospital from January 2015 and October 2015 was compared to the total cost of disposable medical non-woven packaging materials used in the hospital from January 2014 to October 2014. It was found that for paper-plastic packaging materials, the number of clinical small medical items (bags for removing stitches and bags for expanding stitching) was 5 437 less than disposable medical non-woven packaging materials, when the number of patients entering and discharging from the hospital slightly increased. The total packaging cost saved 23 025.3 yuan. Conclusions Not only can paper-plastic packaging materials reduce the loss of medical resources, reduce the workload, save expenses for hospitals and clinical departments, but also it has advantages in guaranteeing the medical quality and reducing the hospital infection risk. It realizes the double win situation of hospital economic benefits and social benefits. Key words: Paper-plastic packaging; Medical non-woven fabrics; Cost analysis; Sterilization supply center