Centre bans reuse of single-use medical devices across India’s hospitals

The Union Health Ministry has directed states and union territories to enforce a ban on reusing single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items in public and private healthcare facilities across India. The order, issued by the Directorate General of Health Services in a letter dated 16 October 2026, followed findings that some private and corporate hospitals had sterilised such items and used them on several patients. Reuse was reported in cardiology, nephrology, oncology, cardiothoracic and vascular surgery, and neurosurgery.

The health authorities said reuse threatens patient safety, infection prevention, regulatory compliance and healthcare spending, and may breach the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, the Medical Devices Rules, 2017 and the Clinical Establishments Act, 2010. Authorities have been asked to inspect facilities, monitor compliance and act against violations. Such devices should be used strictly as the original manufacturer instructs.