EVALUATION OF SOLID MEDICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AT PASAMAN BARAT REGIONAL HOSPITAL, INDONESIA: CHALLENGES AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT SOLUTIONS

This study aims to assess the current condition of solid medical waste management at Pasaman Barat Regional Hospital, identify the challenges faced in waste management, evaluate the steps already taken by the hospital, and propose more effective solutions. A qualitative descriptive method with a case study approach involved observations, interviews, and document analysis. Notably, the evaluation covered the stages of waste management, including sorting, transportation, storage, and disposal. The results indicate that the management of solid medical waste at Pasaman Barat Regional Hospital remains suboptimal, with several non-compliances with applicable regulations. This includes the Ministry of Health Decree No. 1204/2004 and the Ministry of Environment Regulation No. 56/2015. The main challenges include a shortage of sanitation officers, malfunctioning incinerator facilities, and improper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Additionally, temporary waste storage facilities are inadequate and waste transportation routes pass through areas frequently used by patients. In conclusion, solid medical waste management at Pasaman Barat Regional Hospital requires improvement in several areas, including proper use of PPE, enhanced storage facilities, and improved waste transportation routes. In line with this, stricter supervision and regulation compliance are essential in improving environmental safety and public health protection.