Medical waste management in healthcare institutions

Abstract

Studies over the past decade have shown that medical waste generated has increased significantly and will continue to increase with the pandemic. To identify solutions to solve this global issue, the assignment focuses on defining the existing waste management practices followed in developing countries and highlights specific challenges faced. The purpose of this assignment is to identify ways where healthcare organizations can improve the overall medical waste management (MWM) process and create awareness among co-workers. The assignment is divided into three main components where critical analysis of primary research, policy for waste management and use of IT/IS tools were analyzed. Three articles analyzed in this assignment were published in high impact journals/international reports between 2014-2018. Findings from the primary research were obtained using a Likert-scale questionnaire from 156 healthcare institutions, the results indicated that MWM practices followed in healthcare institutions are impacted by three factors, awareness of staff, technological availability and attitudes of top-board management. The three factors had a p-value of 0.00 in the correlation analysis carried out indicating a highly significant relationship between them. Integrated sustainable waste management model following the GWMO (Global Waste Management Outlook) framework was identified to be most adaptable method. The advantage of this model is such that it can be remodeled based on the country’s requirement with the help of digital tools and country-level indicators. The use of IT/IS tools were critically analyzed in the last article with use of GIS integrated real-time waste management system being identified as the most feasible option, where using online tracking systems and smart bins the type of waste and quantities produced can be measured and provide real time updates to local authorities to ensure safe waste management practices are followed. Recommendations from the assignment identifies that countries needs to conduct a preliminary analysis of types of medical waste being generated in healthcare institutions to provide a better understanding of types of hazardous waste exposed to the environment. Additionally, frequent training workshops needs to be conducted to ensure the management and staff understand the importance of MWM.