PRIVATE doctors will have to pay about $500 per month for disposal of syringes under the Government's first scheme to treat clinical waste.
The scheme will segregate, package, label and collect clinical waste such as used syringes, blood packs and dressings before they are burned in a centralised incinerator.
Under the plan, to be launched from 2001, all hospitals will be required to separate their clinical waste into four categories: body parts, sharp-edged objects, drugs and biohazards.
The waste should be marked with clear labels to inform transport workers what is inside the boxes and to avoid injuries.
The Hong Kong Medical Association will issue a code of practice for private doctors to follow.
Steve Barclay, Principal Assistant Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, said mandatory regulations would be required if private doctors failed to comply with the scheme.