Friday, December 2, 2011

U.S. medical 'trash' saving lives abroad

I'd like to point you towards an article from CNN yesterday dealing with the redistribution of unused medical supplies towards developing countries. While the language is perhaps a bit inflammatory (our trash becomes their treasure), our MSS has discussed this issue at several recent meetings.

Chief among concerns from our section is the thought that folks abroad might be getting second rate medical care by using expired supplies.  In some cases (drugs that expire and may become dangerous or ineffective), this is clearly an ethical issue.  In many others (equipment that can be re-sterilized or used without concern of degradation), this  is a great way to redistribute unused supplies to the benefit of the poor.

Take a look at the article and see some examples how this is taking place and helping deliver care in the real world.


U.S. medical 'trash' saving lives abroad
Published on CNN.com - Health | shared via feedly mobile
Third World hospitals are saving lives with medical materials discarded in the U.S.

No comments:

Post a Comment