Experts flag monitoring gaps in Karnataka private hospitals regarding device reuse
Public health experts warn that staff shortages and weak regulatory mechanisms hinder the enforcement of single-use medical device safety standards.
Public health experts have raised concerns regarding the monitoring of private hospitals and the enforcement of patient safety standards in Karnataka, according to Medical Dialogues.
The experts identified staff shortages, inadequate inspections, and weak regulatory mechanisms as primary challenges in ensuring compliance with prohibitions on reusing single-use medical devices.
A public health activist from Karnataka Janaarogya Chaluvali stated that the state lacks a strong enough monitoring system to ensure private hospitals follow safety standards.
The activist noted that monitoring smaller clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and hospitals is particularly difficult as their daily practices may avoid regular scrutiny.
A public health researcher from Sarvatrika Arogya Andolana Karnataka said regulatory functions are often sidelined because health department officials are occupied with clinical and administrative duties.
Public health doctor Sylvia Karpagam highlighted monitoring gaps in smaller nursing homes and clinics, though she clarified there is no specific evidence currently available to establish if single-use devices are being reused in the state.