MARKETING MINUTE
Lessons healthcare manufacturers can learn from other industries about medical device reprocessing. Medical device reprocessing is not a new concept, but the popularity of recycling is increasing as companies both
in and out of healthcare become more eco-conscious. Innovative businesses that use device reprocessing include BMW, Ritz Carlton, and Rolex. In this article, we will look at best practices healthcare manufacturers can learn about medical device reprocessing from these three businesses.
Types of medical device reprocessing
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Medical device reprocessing is the industrial process medical equipment undergoes so that facilities can use them again. Reprocessing has two different meanings in healthcare depending on whether you are working with a reusable device or a single-use device.
Reusable Device Reprocessing is the strict cleaning and treatment practices technicians use to sterilize medical equipment and prepare it for future use.
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Single-Use Device Reprocessing is the recycling of used devices to create parts for new equipment.
Johnson & Johnson is leading the way in medical device reprocessing. They offer reprocessing services for both their machines and equipment from other manufacturers. Medical device reprocessing for single-use devices saved an estimated $8.6 million. They also kept around 281,000 pounds of regulated medical waste out of landfills. Here are some other examples of item reprocessing, based on practices by BMW, Ritz Carlton, and Rolex.
BMW implements a circular economy BMW recently unveiled its new plans for creating a more sustainable future. Their targets include: ʯ Lowering CO2 emissions ʯ Consistent implementation of circular economy Circular economy refers to planning products by following a circular pattern. The circle includes the planning, designing, production, and end of life of the product. They want to increase the number of secondary materials they use in manufacturing to as high as 50% through reprocessing. They have also partnered with recycling organizations to help them keep plastics out of landfills. 54
April 2022
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