Healthcare Waste Management: An Overview

Abstract

Healthcare waste (HCW) is a vital global issue that cannot be overlooked due to its threat to humans and the environment stemming from its infectious and hazardous nature. This study examines previous works undertaken on healthcare waste management (HCWM) practices around the world, notably the developing countries with a particular interest in segregation, collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of HCW. This study draws attention to the environmental hazards arising from each stage of HCWM. Factors affecting HCWM practices have also been discussed. This study revealed evidence of poor HCWM practices in many developing countries. It also showed the impacts of human and non-human factors on HCWM practices. Proper documentation, sufficient budget, adequate supply of HCWM materials, frequent training of healthcare workers, and development of local manuals and guides are essential if a country is determined to achieve an efficient and sustainable HCWM system. Liquid HCW needs to be investigated as much as the solid HCW. Exploration of HCW minimization, reuse, and recycling opportunities is recommended for future research. The use of Modern-day technology such as Artificial Intelligence and geographic information system (GIS) has provided good results so far. However, they can be explored further for prediction, real-time monitoring, and reporting of HCW. The present study can be adopted as a guide in discussing issues about HCWM.