Researchers find Reprocessing of Single-Use Medical Devices

Part of Urgently Needed Adoption of “Circular Economy”

Health Affairs Paper Finds Healthcare Supply Chains

Major Sources of Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Embargoed Until December 7, 2020 1600 EST

[December 7, 2020 – Washington, D.C.]– Regulated medical device reprocessing is an important

tool in improving environmental and public health outcomes, according to a new analysis published

in Health Affairs. The paper indicates that health care systems generate significant amounts of air

pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, the vast majority of which come from the supply chain.

Hospitals that have medical devices reprocessed by regulated reprocessors removed over 7,100

tons of waste, a number that could grow dramatically, according to the researchers.

“COVID-19 has shined a light on health care supply chain vulnerabilities and research like this

outlines the path to a more resilient, cost-effective and less toxic health care system of the future,”

said Dan Vukelich, Esq., President, Association of Medical Device Reprocessors. “A circular medical

device industry, in the words of the study’s authors, established on ‘principles of resource

conservation, efficiency, and cycles of reuse and material recovery’ will require safe, effective

products and services provided by regulated reprocessors.”…

Click here for the full news release.

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