Medical Waste Management

Medical care is essential for health and well-being, but it generates hazardous waste that poses serious environmental and public health risks. While healthcare facilities have improved medical waste management, little attention has been given to waste from home-based care. This study focuses on South Africa, highlighting the risks posed by healthcare risk waste (HCRW) generated in homes, which is often mixed with general household waste. Using a snowball research method, the study found that home-based caregivers lack proper waste management practices and infrastructure. It compares local and international approaches, revealing a gap in policy and public awareness. The study stresses that all waste generators, including home caregivers, must manage HCRW responsibly to protect health and the environment, in line with the National Environmental Management: Waste Act. It recommends a new policy framework to guide safe, effective waste management practices for home-based care.