The horrific ways in which medical waste in our country is managed -- or mismanaged -- are becoming increasingly concerning. While our waste management in general could use a makeover, reforming the medical waste disposal system is nothing short of a dire need.
A report last year found 60% of the hospitals across the country without the necessary bins used to properly dispose of medical waste, while over 80% hospitals lack any waste treatment system in the first place.
While the numbers serve as a reminder to the fact, a shameful amount of negligence and disregard for public health has been on display and, unfortunately, not much has been done to address this.
Medical waste disposed incorrectly poses a serious threat to the country at large, either in the form of infections or health hazards being spread, or through the age-old practice of reselling used (and contaminated) medical equipment.
It is no secret that mismanagement exists on numerous levels in our country, and that the carelessness on one person's part can cause harm to countless people. However, when it comes to the health and safety of a people, there should be zero tolerance for such negligence.
This is a pressing issue, and must be treated with the seriousness and urgency that it warrants.
The government must intervene and impose laws that mandate a proper medical waste system for all hospitals. Those found to discount proper waste disposal methods must be held accountable and punished accordingly.
Regardless of how advanced our medical sector becomes, unless a thorough system is established and enforced across the board, it will continue to be a hindrance to public health and the country's overall well-being.