A descriptive study identifying gaps in the effective implementation of mercury-containing device phase-out in selected DOH-retained hospitals.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: After the 2008 phase-out of mercury-containing medical devices, the implementation status was evaluated by this study to know the program effectiveness in removing mercury exposure risks in health facilities.

METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was done to determine the amount of mercury stored in ten selected Department of Health (DOH)-retained hospitals. Key informant interviews were also performed with Pollution Control Officers to determine their program implementation status, strengths, and areas for improvement.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: All hospitals initiated the mercury minimization program but none has fully implemented it. The total amount recorded is 213.5 kg for mercury-containing materials. A discrepancy of 31.4% exists compared to the initial 2008 inventory of 312.7 kg. The main strength identified by the key informants was the one-time collection of mercury devices in hospitals. Hospitals need administrative and logistic support to properly implement mercury phase-out, particularly on monitoring of temporary storage. Disposal protocols should also be created to fully eliminate mercury exposure in hospitals.