Pharmaceutical Hazardous Waste Management Practices in Idaho Medical Facilities
Abstract
This project, sponsored by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ), explores the management practices for pharmaceutical hazardous waste by medical and veterinary facilities in the state of Idaho. The purpose of this study is to ascertain whether harmful prescription substances are handled and disposed of properly in locations that use them, and to determine the levels of awareness of proper procedures by the appropriate personnel. A survey was assembled and distributed in IMGMA and IMA newsletters, as well as presented to individual facilities via phone. Preliminary results indicate that a majority of the facilities that were contacted are in compliance, but there is a noticeable level of general confusion concerning the parameters of compliance with policies of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the IDEQ, and the Environmental Protection Agency. In order to address this confusion, we will be organizing a workshop in conjunction with requirements of the DEQ in order to educate medical and veterinary managers and staff about pharmaceutical hazardous waste disposal. The desired outcome of the workshop, which is planned to occur in the late Spring, is to provide a consistent and comprehensive understanding among all veterinary and medical personnel of regulatory requirements.