The John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFKMC) has recommitted to protect public health, safeguard the environment, and manage healthcare waste in full compliance with the established environmental and public health regulations.
Recent public statements, and media reports alleged that the Center engages in the open burning of infectious medical waste.
“The hospital clarified that these allegations are inaccurate, and do not reflect the healthcare waste management systems currently in operation at the institution.”
JFK Medical Center’s waste management practices are implemented under established national guidelines, and are subject to oversight by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL).
As part of its healthcare waste management program, JFK operates two approved waste treatment systems, which serve different purposes.
The manual incinerator is used for approved non-infectious waste through a controlled combustion process.
During operation, limited visible emissions may occasionally be observed. The facility was constructed following technical guidance and inspections by EPA, and NPHIL, including the installation of a high chimney designed to disperse emissions in accordance with applicable environmental standards.
The mechanical incinerator is dedicated exclusively to the treatment of infectious healthcare waste, including sharps and other regulated medical waste.
This electrically powered system operates under controlled conditions, and is designed to minimize environmental impact while supporting safe infection prevention and control practices.
JFK said, it does not engage in open burning of infectious or hazardous healthcare waste.
Meanwhile, the hospital said, it remains fully committed to maintain safe, responsible, and environmentally sound waste management practices consistent with national regulations and internationally accepted infection prevention standards.
The Medical Center said, it also values transparency and constructive engagement with the public.
While recent reports have raised concerns regarding the hospital’s waste management operations, JFK was not provided an opportunity to present factual information regarding its waste management procedures prior to publication.
The hospital said, it believes that direct engagement and verification of information contribute to accurate public understanding and informed reporting.
As Liberia’s national referral and teaching hospital, the Center recognizes the importance of maintaining the trust and confidence of the communities it serves.
The hospital has meanwhile, encouraged residents with concerns or questions regarding its operations to engage directly with the administration so that issues may be reviewed promptly, discussed openly, and addressed collaboratively.
Community partnership, they said, remains central to JFK’s mission. Beyond delivering specialized healthcare services, the Medical Center continues to support surrounding communities through medical outreach programs, eye care initiatives, health education campaigns, and other public health interventions that improve the health and well-being of her patients.
JFK Medical Center also recommitted itself to openness, accountability, and continuous collaboration with regulatory institutions, community stakeholders, and the media in advancing public health and environmental stewardship.
The hospital encourages all media institutions to seek verification and comment from relevant authorities before publication, consistent with the principles of balanced, fair, and responsible journalism.
