The Link Between Plastic and the Healthcare Industry

Plastic has had a large impact on the medical industry. With the way the healthcare industry has advanced over the years, medical plastic products have proved to be increasingly versatile. As the industry adapted, so have the products. (Information credit - https://spicolymedical.co.za/shop)

Environmentally speaking, plastic has a bad reputation. However, when it comes to medical plastic products, plastic has proven to be a valued life-saving material. Unfortunately, giving up medical plastic products is not as simple as giving up using a plastic straw. While some may not be on board with the healthcare industry using as much plastic as they do, it’s important to note the benefits of using these products, the way using said medical products have provided solutions to the healthcare industry, as well as the different ways the products are being used.

The Uses and Benefits of Medical Plastic Products

Disposable plastic syringes, prosthetics, blood bags, implants and containers are just some of the plastic products used in the industry. If you think about it, the introduction of just these products alone have improved the lives of many patients, if not saved them, as well as made healthcare safer, more efficient and more cost-effective. However, there are more benefits of using these products for both the patient and medical practitioner.

The two main benefits of using medical plastic products is the sterility and safety. While it is frowned upon, one-use plastics are widely used in healthcare, as the possibility of spreading dangerous diseases is eliminated since there is no longer a need to re-use or sterilise the equipment. In terms of safety, medical plastic products, such as waste disposal bags, are used to safely remove and transport medical waste. These plastic products are also shatter-proof, meaning that they make for a far more convenient storage or transportation option.

Before the revolutionization of healthcare, metal implants were used. However, as the industry advanced, newer plastic products, such as plastic implants, were invented. Thanks to this discovery, there is an increased level of comfort for patients. Some patients have even found that they were allergic to the metals being used for the implants. The plastic implants come in a hypo-allergenic option, meaning that patients with severe allergies need not worry about reacting badly to the implant. They can now go on to live healthier lives.

Finally, products and packaging. When receiving medication from doctors or even just staying in the hospital overnight, medical plastic products are used. Whether it is the packaging for your medicine, or the cup used to collect a urine sample, plastic products are always used. Plastic has not only decreased medical costs, but also reduced the spread of dangerous, infectious diseases. Plastic has essentially improved the quality of healthcare that patients receive. If not for medical plastic products, the healthcare industry would not be thriving as much as it is today. There is a strong link between the plastic and healthcare industries.

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Tony Pearson Joined: March 13th, 2019