Plastic has long been a staple in the medical field, it’s durable, relatively affordable, and easy to clean, a must for infection prevention practices. There is a downfall, plastic waste has become a leading cause in pollution globally, causing many environmental concerns.
One of the best ways to help curb the spread of plastics and microplastics in our environment is to clean and reuse functional durable medical equipment. Home Health in Portland, Oregon has launched a durable medical equipment recycling project in an effort to not only help us reach our carbon negative goal by 2030, but to provide medical equipment access to patients who face financial barriers.
The medical and social benefits of this project are achieved through a partnership with Medical Teams International (MTI). Patients can donate equipment like wheelchairs, and other rehabilitation devices where it can be shared with other patients in need. Caregivers can bring disinfected equipment to designated areas at satellite home heath offices where MTI will collect them.
Environmental Stewardship at Providence
- Since April 2020, Providence has used the WE ACT framework to reduce carbon emissions across the family of organizations by 11.7%. The 2022 Environmental Stewardship Report details our progress.
- Learn more about the Environmental Stewardship team. Reach out to them with any questions and sign up today for the twice-a-month Environmental Stewardship News e-newsletter with regular updates on our progress.
- Follow Environmental Stewardship on InOurCircle and on Viva Engage!