EPA developing new guidelines for drug disposal
New EPA rules would affect all health facilities, including veterinary practices.
Washington, D.C. - Concerned about pharmaceuticals in the water supply, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is drafting a new guide for pharmaceutical disposal for healthcare facilities, including veterinary practices.
The EPA is accepting public comment through Nov. 8 on the guide titled "Best Management Practices for Unused Pharmaceuticals at Health Care Facilities." Click here for details.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has asked that veterinary facilities be exempt, citing veterinary medicine's minimal contribution to pharmaceutical disposal into public waterways. AVMA has backed up its exemption request with an instructional video and free guide to veterinarians detailing proper drug disposal techniques.
EPA dropped an effort last year to survey healthcare providers about their drug disposal practices.
