Government Outlines Comprehensive Medical Waste Management Strategy
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Nelson Azeem addressed the National Assembly on Monday, providing detailed assurances regarding the safe and proper disposal of medical waste across Pakistan. During the question hour, he emphasized that medical waste management is a serious concern and outlined the coordinated efforts being undertaken by relevant authorities.
Coordinated Regulatory Framework and Monitoring
Azeem highlighted that the health regulatory body, in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency, is actively managing the system through a coordinated mechanism. To enhance transparency and efficiency, a dedicated online portal has been established to facilitate complaints and monitor compliance. This system covers all major healthcare facilities, including tertiary hospitals, dispensaries, and other institutions.
He further informed that approximately 24 inspection teams are conducting daily visits to healthcare facilities to ensure adherence to prescribed standards. Notices have been issued to institutions found violating rules, with necessary actions taken accordingly to enforce regulations.
Inclusion of Private Sector and Waste Disposal Companies
The parliamentary secretary noted that private healthcare institutions have been integrated into the monitoring system, while licensed waste disposal companies are engaged to improve the handling of hazardous medical waste. This inclusion aims to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency in waste management practices.
Acknowledgment of Deficiencies and Corrective Measures
In response to supplementary questions, Azeem acknowledged that while the system is functioning satisfactorily, there is always room for improvement. He revealed that certain deficiencies have been identified during inspections, prompting corrective measures following consultative meetings with stakeholders.
He specifically pointed out that nearly 80 percent of medical waste is generated by tertiary hospitals, which have been directed to ensure the proper functioning of their incinerators. This focus on high-volume sources is part of targeted efforts to mitigate risks associated with medical waste.
Enforcement Actions and Registration Compliance
Azeem reported that 499 notices have been issued to clinics and other establishments for violations, warning them to rectify shortcomings or face cancellation of registration. Additionally, over 2,000 healthcare facilities are registered with the regulatory authority and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance, with actions taken based on inspection reports.
This comprehensive approach underscores the government's commitment to addressing medical waste management as a critical public health and environmental issue, with ongoing efforts to refine and strengthen the system through stakeholder collaboration and rigorous oversight.
