Critical examination of health impacts of healthcare

Abstract

The management of clinical waste generates several environmental and health challenges in most countries, particularly, developing countries including Ghana. Despite the possible health implications associated with clinical waste, much attention has not been given to its proper management. The study sought to evaluate clinical waste management and disposal system in the Ho Municipality. The study involved six (6) healthcare facilities in the Ho Municipality. A total of 165 respondents comprising doctors, nurses, waste collectors, EPA, Municipal assembly formed the sample of the study. Site visits, interviews and survey questionnaires were employed to collect information on the methods, process, environmental and public health impact, adherence to clinical waste management code of practice as well as challenges faced in clinical waste management. Purposive sampling method was adopted in selecting respondents for the study. Results from the study showed that segregation of clinical waste was poorly done in most of the healthcare facilities studied. Additionally, waste handlers only use industrial gloves without full personal protection equipment when working on clinical waste and non-availability of waste management facilities. The findings also revealed that clinical waste have negative impact on public health and the environment. The study recommends among other things that training should be intensified on proper waste management practices in the healthcare facilities. Management of the various healthcare facilities should endeavor to provide modern clinical waste management facilities.