Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 24: The Centre has prohibited the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items in all public and private healthcare facilities across the country, citing concerns over patient safety and infection control.
The directive follows findings by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) that certain private and corporate hospitals were sterilising products labelled for single use and using them on multiple patients.
According to the DGHS, the practice was observed in specialised medical fields, including cardiology, nephrology, oncology, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, and neurosurgery. In some cases, patients were charged the full cost of the reused items, or the expenses were reimbursed by government authorities.
The health authorities warned that reusing such products poses serious risks to patient safety, infection prevention and control, regulatory compliance and healthcare expenditure.
The practice may also violate provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, and the Clinical Establishments Act, 2010.
In a letter to state and Union Territory health secretaries, directors of health services, drug controllers and the Drug Controller General of India, the DGHS directed authorities to ensure strict vigilance and effective enforcement.
The directive states that single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items must be used strictly in accordance with the instructions and recommendations of their original equipment manufacturers. Authorities have also been instructed to conduct inspections and monitor healthcare establishments to ensure compliance, with action to be taken against violations under applicable laws.
The Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) welcomed the decision, describing it as a patient-first measure.
Rajiv Nath, forum coordinator of AiMeD, said products labelled for single use must not be reused. He added that when a product is used contrary to its labelled instructions, responsibility for any resulting failure or harm should rest with the person or establishment that reused it, rather than the manufacturer.
The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) also welcomed the DGHS directive dated October 16, 2026, saying it was an important step towards strengthening patient safety and improving treatment outcomes.
The association stressed that the effectiveness of the order would depend on consistent enforcement by state authorities, regulators and healthcare institutions. It also called for greater public awareness so that patients understand and assert their right to safe and ethical medical care.