Reprocessing of single-use medical devices in the context of the ecological transition of the healthcare system
Publié le |
Irina Schapira, Paule Kujas (Igas) and Yvan Aujollet (IGEDD)
With the support of the IGAS data center
This report outlines possible implementation methods for the pilot program concerning the reprocessing of single-use medical devices (SUDs), as provided for in Article 66 of the 2024 Social Security Financing Act (LFSS). This initiative is part of the “Environmental Planning for the Healthcare System” roadmap, published in May 2023.
Reprocessing SUDs involves making them safely reusable through sterilization and refurbishment. There is currently no industrial reprocessing infrastructure on national territory. Given the required investments—especially to obtain CE marking for reprocessed SUDs—such an industry can only emerge if public authorities clearly support the reprocessing of SUDs.
In the meantime, the mission has identified a company based in Germany that could reprocess SUDs within the next two years. The mission has compiled a list of 74 SUD references, consisting mainly of electrophysiology catheters, which could be included in the scope of the pilot program.
What recommendations?
The report offers recommendations regarding the type of reprocessing system (open or closed) that could be adopted, the selection criteria for healthcare facilities participating in the pilot, and the approach to informing patients.
The environmental benefit of SUD reprocessing must be objectively assessed and weighed against other ways to reduce the environmental footprint of medical devices (MDs). Following the example of the United Kingdom’s “Greener NHS” strategy, hospital procurement practices could be more effectively leveraged, particularly to encourage manufacturers to adopt eco-design principles and to offer reusable MDs.
Finally, the resources and governance chosen to implement environmental planning for the healthcare system warrant closer examination. Healthcare facilities are still committing in isolated ways and without specific incentives to reducing the ecological footprint of care delivery.
A lack of expertise and support hinders the broader adoption of the most effective actions. Stronger involvement from the public bodies responsible for ecological transition would also help better prioritize efforts under the cross-ministerial “France Nation Verte” strategy.