The decision to adopt sustainable and economically viable practices is gaining momentum across the EU healthcare sector. As of January 1, 2025, Danish healthcare facilities can now use reprocessed single-use medical devices. The country officially notified the European Commission of its opt-in decision at the turn of the year.
A key player in this development was Aarhus University Hospital, one of Denmark’s largest and most prestigious medical institutions. For years, the hospital has advocated for a more sustainable use of medical technology and played a crucial role in pushing for this legislative change. The hospital is also a central partner in the “Born Green Generation” initiative, which aims to reduce reliance on unnecessary plastics.
A Multi-Year Process Leading to Success
This decision follows an extensive, multi-year process. Before the introduction of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR), Aarhus University Hospital had collaborated with Vanguard AG. However, when the MDR came into effect in 2021, a legal barrier emerged: without national legislation, the hospital could no longer access these services.
In response, Aarhus University Hospital partnered with the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare to develop a structured approach toward establishing a legal framework for reprocessing in Denmark. This initiative involved extensive stakeholder consultations and expert assessments, culminating in the formation of a working group in October 2021. The group evaluated the safety, feasibility, and potential benefits of reprocessing single-use medical devices, considering economic, supply chain, and environmental factors.
The working group’s discussions and various public consultations laid the foundation for the Ministry of Health’s final decision to allow reprocessing in Denmark. The NGO Health Care Without Harm Europe also contributed to this process by advocating for the decision during the final public consultation.
The Benefits: Lower Costs, Reduced Environmental Impact, and Greater Supply Chain Security
The findings of the Danish working group highlight the significant advantages of reprocessing single-use medical devices. From a financial perspective, the cost savings are substantial. According to the working group’s calculations, based on a formula from a preliminary study, Aarhus University Hospital could save up to €330,000 per year on ultrasound catheters.
From an environmental perspective, reprocessing provides a tangible opportunity to reduce the healthcare sector’s carbon footprint. Aarhus University Hospital reported a 56% reduction in CO₂ emissions for reprocessed ultrasound catheters. Additionally, reprocessing decreases reliance on new plastics and other raw materials, directly addressing key sustainability challenges.
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