HPA: No proper system for disposal of hospital waste

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has said that there is no proper system for waste disposal in hospitals in the Maldives.

A workshop began today on the World Health Organisation (WHO) policy on waste management in health care facilities.

Speaking at the workshop, organised by HPA, Public Health Program Coordinator Aminath Shaufa said, “Improper disposal of used syringes and other items can lead to spread of hepatitis and similar diseases.”

She said that the new policy was compiled following an assessment of the current waste management and disposal situation in hospitals in Maldives, conducted by a WHO consultant.

“We hope to see improvement in waste disposal systems in health care facilities following the implementation of this policy,” Shaufa said.

She added that training programs would be held for hospital staff in islands excluding Malé once the policy is finalised.

The workshop was attended by officials from hospitals in Malé, government institutions, and the UN.