Reducing environmental pollution through improved medical waste management: An Assessment of practices and strategies in Patuakhali Municipality, Bangladesh

Abstract

Effective medical waste (MW) management is crucial because of its significant effects on human health and the environment. In Patuakhali Municipality, improper handling of medical waste in various healthcare facilities is contributing to increased vulnerability to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, hepatitis, and various skin infections. The aim of the study is to categorize different types of medical waste, determine their generation rates, evaluate current waste management practices, and identify shortcomings by comparing them with standard procedures. The study was conducted across 14 selected healthcare establishments (HCEs) that contribute substantially to the municipality’s total medical waste. A descriptive research methodology was used, involving field surveys and interviews with hospital authorities and waste management personnel. Findings revealed that these facilities generate approximately 1495 kg of medical waste per day, of which 1328.6kg/day (88.7%) is non-infectious and 166.4 kg/day (11.13%) is infectious. The average waste generation rate is 1.54 kg per bed per day or 0.30 kg per patient per day. The study highlights the absence of systematic and regulated medical waste management. Key barriers identified include lack of awareness among staff, insufficient financial resources, and limited institutional willingness to improve practices. Furthermore, the existing system lacks proper segregation, storage, and disposal measures.   Some examples of proper medical waste management are provided, along with identified gaps in the current system. Therefore, Patuakhali Municipality and HCEs authorities should adopt appropriate policies and implement training programs for personnel involved in medical waste handling to improve overall management practices.