National News

Ban on Medical Device Reuse

October 27 , 2026 16 hrs 0 min 26 0

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) directed public and private hospitals to stop reusing single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items.
Reusing such devices may cause cross-infection, device malfunction and reduced performance, especially in critical care.
The directive covers devices used in cardiology, nephrology, oncology, neurosurgery and cardiothoracic and vascular surgery (CTVS).
Devices labelled for single use must follow the original equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
State health authorities and drug controllers were asked to inspect, monitor and take action against violations.
The practice may violate provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; Medical Devices Rules, 2017; and Clinical Establishments Act, 2010.