The calculator takes the average of the emissions reductions found in these studies by using reprocessed versions of the single use device, and quickly and easily shows the emissions reductions. But it also shows how wasteful using virgin single-use devices is.
By offering the calculator for free, AMDR hopes to demonstrate the environmental benefits of reprocessed SUDs to health and environmental policymakers, as well as to help hospital purchasing decision-makers and sustainability coordinators to calculate emissions savings from their reprocessing programs. To achieve this, we evaluate relevant, peer-reviewed LCAs comparing reprocessed SUDs to their original device counterparts to power the emissions savings formulas used by the calculator. Because LCAs use dozens of inputs for the specific devices, manufacturer and processes studied, these formulas result in estimated savings only. However, they are the best estimates available for calculating emissions savings from the use of reprocessed SUDs currently. With time, and the input of more LCAs, we anticipate data reliability will increase.
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The calculator is of particular importance now that the Joint Commission is now voluntarily accrediting hospitals for sustainability. Hospitals are expected to benchmark their emissions and show improvement in reductions over time. This calculator is a way to credibly measure emission reductions. CMS also just announced its TEAM Decarbonization and Resilience Initiative, a clear indication of the need for more resources like our calculator that hospitals can use to reduce waste and emissions.
The calculator reminds all who use it that a simple switch to FDA regulated, reprocessed single-use devices reduces cost, waste, and greenhouse gas emissions. But it also strengthens our supply chain by keeping devices more locally available. What’s more, when hospitals choose reprocessed devices, they drive a circular economy that should incentivize more manufacturers to join.
AMDR members are ready to help hospitals reduce emissions using reprocessed devices. By working with our members, hospitals know they are partnering with companies that want to help them reduce cost, waste, and emissions.
About the author: Dan Vukelich is the president and CEO of the Association of Medical Device Reprocessors.Back to HCB News
