Problems in the Implementation of Biomedical Waste Management Programme at Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram – A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: With infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B posing major public health threats, improper hospital waste disposal can have serious consequences. Despite several measures at Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, biomedical waste management was observed to be ineffective.

Objectives: (1) To understand the existing practices of hospital waste segregation, transport, and disposal; (2) To assess the awareness and attitude of different categories of hospital personnel regarding biomedical waste management; (3) To identify problems encountered during implementation and suggest potential solutions.

Methodology: A qualitative study using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and direct observations among key stakeholders including the Hospital Superintendent, Heads of Departments, faculty members, junior doctors, nursing staff, attenders, and waste handlers. Data were analyzed through transcription, coding, domain identification, summarization, and report writing.

Results: Knowledge regarding biomedical waste management was generally adequate. However, waste minimization was unsatisfactory, infrastructure and manpower were inadequate, segregation practices were poor (particularly among junior doctors and house surgeons), Grade II workers manually sorted improperly segregated waste, several disposal methods were inappropriate, and bystander control was poor.