Global Medical Disposable Products Market Outlook, 2028

The increasing awareness of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) has led to a greater emphasis on infection control measures. Single-use medical disposables have become essential in reducing the risk of cross-contamination and HAIs, driving up their demand. Additionally, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions necessitates frequent medical interventions and monitoring. Single-use medical items such as syringes, insulin pens, and test strips play a crucial role in managing these conditions, contributing to the growth of the market. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role of medical disposables in protecting healthcare workers and patients. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and gowns has become symbolic of infection control, leading to increased consumption and demand. In addition, emerging economies are investing in healthcare infrastructure to provide accessible and high-quality medical services. This expansion requires a steady supply of medical disposables, both for routine care and emergency responses. In alignment with this trend, medical disposables simplify procedures, improve efficiency, and reduce turnaround times. They also eliminate the need for complex sterilization processes and minimize the risk of human errors, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Moreover, advancements in technology have given rise to innovative medical procedures and devices that rely on sterile environments and disposable tools to minimize complications. The growing field of minimally invasive surgeries and diagnostic techniques is expected to further contribute to a positive market outlook. Market growth is further expected to be driven by the on-going initiatives undertaken by major industry players. These key players are actively implementing various strategies to bolster their positions in the medical disposables market. For instance, in April 2019, Smith & Nephew PLC made a strategic acquisition of Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. This move was aimed at accelerating the development of Smith & Nephew's advanced wound management product portfolio. Similarly, in May 2019, 3M announced its acquisition of Acelity Inc., with the goal of enhancing its wound management solutions. This strategic move has the potential to expand 3M's customer base significantly. Consequently, such proactive initiatives by leading market players are expected to drive market growth throughout the forecast period.

According to the research report, “Global Medical Disposable Products Market Outlook, 2028” the market is anticipated to cross USD 500 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 315.10 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 8.64% CAGR by 2023-28. The increasing demand for medical disposable devices can be attributed to several key factors. First, the implementation and enhancement of infection prevention standards, coupled with the surge in hospital admissions due to COVID-19, have significantly driven the need for these disposable items. Additionally, prominent health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Infectious American Society of Clinical Oncology have recommended the use of medical disposable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as face shields and masks, for safeguarding against COVID-19. Furthermore, the growth of the medical disposable market is propelled by various factors, including a rise in surgical procedures, an uptick in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), an increase in chronic illnesses, and an increasing awareness of the importance of maintaining health and hygiene. Notably, the prevalence of conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes has surged, with estimates from the International Diabetes Federation projecting a significant impact, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The market for medical disposables is also influenced by a growing emphasis on health and hygiene among healthcare providers and the increasing adoption of automation in surgical procedures. The heightened awareness regarding safety and hygiene measures, particularly in the context of surgical procedures and maternity care, has contributed to this trend. However, it's important to note that there are challenges to market growth, including concerns about the environmental impact of disposable items leading to increased waste generation and issues related to insufficient reimbursement rates for these devices.

North America is dominating the global medical disposable products market with more than 30% revenue share in 2022.

The global medical disposable products market is segmented into five major regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, South America and Middle East & Africa. Among them, North America is dominating the overall market with higher revenue share in 2022. North America is a hub for medical research and development, including the creation of innovative medical devices and disposables. The region's focus on technological advancements and product innovation drives the demand for new and improved medical disposables. North America boasts highly developed and sophisticated healthcare infrastructure, with access to cutting-edge medical technologies and facilities. This enables the region to be at the forefront of medical procedures and treatments that often require the use of medical disposables. The United States, in particular, has one of the highest healthcare expenditure rates globally. This significant investment in healthcare contributes to a robust demand for medical disposables, as healthcare providers prioritize patient safety and infection control. The aging population in North America is more prone to chronic illnesses that require frequent medical interventions and monitoring. This demographic trend contributes to the consistent demand for medical disposables in the region. North America places a significant emphasis on infection control, especially in healthcare settings. The awareness of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) has prompted healthcare facilities to use single-use medical disposables to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, further increasing demand. The COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact globally, led to a substantial surge in the demand for medical disposables such as personal protective equipment (PPE), masks, gloves, and syringes. North American healthcare systems had to rely heavily on these disposables to manage the crisis effectively.

Based on the product type, sterilization supplies are expected to lead the market during the forecast period whereas respiratory supplies are growing with significant CAGR by 2023-28.

Sterilization supplies encompass a range of products, including cotton swabs, cotton balls, test tubes, and other items used in skin preparation to reduce the risk of surgical infections. This category also includes sterilizer bags, which offer a convenient way to sterilize medical devices. Within this segment, there are innovative products like pre-moistened cotton swabs with sterilization solutions, simplifying the application process by eliminating the need to measure out and apply solutions to cotton balls manually. The surge in demand for sterilization supplies, driven by the pandemic's outbreak in hospitals and clinics, is a significant factor fuelling the growth of this segment. Additionally, the absence of effective alternatives and the introduction of products with innovative packaging are anticipated to positively impact the expansion of this segment. However, the prevalence of respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sleep apnea is on the rise. These conditions require on-going management and treatment, often involving the use of respiratory supplies like inhalers, oxygen equipment, and CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices. As the aging population grows and environmental factors contribute to respiratory issues, the demand for these supplies increases. Increased awareness of respiratory health and improved diagnostic capabilities has led to more individuals seeking treatment for respiratory conditions. This has driven up the demand for respiratory supplies as more patients are diagnosed and prescribed appropriate treatments. Also, a growing trend in healthcare is the shift towards home-based care. Many patients with respiratory conditions can manage their conditions effectively at home with the help of respiratory supplies. This trend has led to increased demand for portable and user-friendly respiratory devices. On-going advancements in respiratory technology have led to the development of more effective and user-friendly respiratory supplies. Newer devices and treatments provide better outcomes for patients, making them more widely adopted.

According to the report, the plastic resins segment dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share in 2022.

Based on raw material, the market is classified into plastic resin, nonwoven material, rubber, paper and paperboard, metals, glass and others. In 2022, plastic resins emerged as the dominant category in the market, accounting for the largest share. This prominence can be attributed to their extensive use in the production of various medical devices, including containers, disposable syringes, and other essential medical items. The market for plastic resins has been further propelled by the growing concern over hospital-acquired infections and the increased adoption of disposable products to curb the spread of COVID-19. Plastics offer a wide array of options, including Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene (PP), low and high-density polyethylene, and polystyrene, which have broadened their applications within the healthcare sector. Plastics are renowned for their versatility, allowing them to be moulded into a diverse range of medical disposable products, ranging from syringes and catheters to gloves and tubing. This adaptability enables manufacturers to efficiently cater to the varying needs of healthcare facilities. Furthermore, plastic resins can be engineered to possess essential properties required for medical applications, such as biocompatibility, resistance to chemicals, and the ability to maintain sterility. They can be formulated to prevent interactions with medications and bodily fluids, ensuring a safe and effective environment for patient care. Additionally, plastic disposables are typically lightweight and cost-effective, aligning with the demands of both healthcare providers and patients. Their ease of mass production and customization further enhances their appeal for medical purposes. Moreover, plastics' capability to be manufactured with minimal risk of contamination and their ability to withstand sterilization processes such as autoclaving or ethylene oxide treatment contribute to their widespread use in the production of medical disposables.

Nearly half of the market share has been occupied by hospitals under the segmentations of end users in 2022 in global medical disposable products market.

Based on the end users, the global market is segmented into hospitals, outpatient/primary care facilities, home healthcare and others. Hospitals play a crucial role as essential centres for various medical activities such as diagnosis, treatment, surgical procedures, and patient care. Consequently, they have a substantial need for a wide range of medical disposables to ensure optimal infection control and patient safety. In the hospital setting, numerous medical procedures and surgeries occur, each requiring specific disposable items. Sterile gloves, masks, drapes, syringes, catheters, and other medical disposables are essential for maintaining a safe and hygienic environment. The critical importance of infection prevention, particularly in the high-risk hospital environment, significantly drives the demand for these single-use products. Furthermore, hospitals serve a diverse patient population with varying medical needs. This diversity necessitates a comprehensive array of medical disposables to address various medical conditions and procedures, contributing to the significant consumption of these products. A study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco, in 2016 revealed that, on average, operating rooms generate over 2000 tons of waste per day, with a significant portion of this waste consisting of disposable medical supplies. Therefore, the substantial utilization of medical disposables within hospitals is expected to foster growth in this segment over the forecast period. The home healthcare segment is poised for significant growth in the coming years. Medical disposables used in home healthcare primarily include items such as needles, syringes, lancets, solid bandages, disposable sheets, and gloves. The demand for home healthcare services is rapidly increasing, driven by factors such as a growing elderly population and government regulations aimed at reducing hospital readmissions. Consequently, the rising adoption of home healthcare is expected to drive increased demand for medical disposables in this segment during the forecast period.

Market Drivers

• Pandemic-Driven Demand Surge: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated the demand for medical disposable products, such as masks, gloves, gowns, and syringes. The increased awareness of infection prevention and control measures has led to higher consumption of disposable medical supplies in healthcare facilities worldwide. This driver is unique because it represents a sudden and unprecedented surge in demand, with potential long-term implications for the market. The pandemic-driven surge in demand for medical disposable products has reshaped the market. It has led to increased investments in production capacity and supply chain resilience to avoid future shortages. Many manufacturers have diversified their product portfolios to adapt to changing healthcare needs, which may have long-term impacts on their business strategies. Manufacturers have rapidly innovated to meet the surge in demand. For instance, they have developed specialized masks and respirators with enhanced filtration capabilities.
• Technological Advancements: Advancements in material science and manufacturing technologies are driving innovation in medical disposable products. For instance, the development of antimicrobial coatings for disposable medical devices and the use of biodegradable materials in single-use products are trends that are influencing the market. These technological drivers are unique as they not only enhance product performance but also address sustainability concerns, a growing trend in the healthcare industry. The use of antimicrobial coatings on disposable medical devices has gained attention due to its potential to reduce the risk of infections. These coatings inhibit the growth of bacteria on the surface of devices, making them safer for patients. This technology can be particularly important in preventing hospital-acquired infections. The shift towards biodegradable materials in disposable medical products aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainability. Biodegradable materials can reduce the environmental impact of medical waste. Manufacturers are exploring options such as bioplastics and compostable materials for items like surgical trays and utensils.

Market Challenges

• Supply Chain Disruptions: The medical disposable products market faces on-going challenges related to supply chain disruptions. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when many countries experienced shortages of essential medical supplies. The global nature of the supply chain for these products and the reliance on just-in-time manufacturing make the market vulnerable to disruptions from factors such as trade restrictions, natural disasters, and geopolitical tensions. To address supply chain disruptions, companies are increasingly adopting strategies to enhance supply chain resilience. This includes diversifying suppliers, stockpiling critical components, and leveraging digital technologies like blockchain to trace and secure the supply chain. Some manufacturers are considering localized production to reduce the dependence on a global supply chain. This approach can help mitigate risks associated with international disruptions and provide more reliable access to essential medical disposables.
• Environmental Sustainability Concerns: While disposable medical products play a crucial role in infection control, they also contribute to environmental issues, such as plastic waste. Balancing the need for single-use medical items with the growing awareness of environmental sustainability is a unique challenge in this market. Regulations and consumer demand for more eco-friendly options are pushing manufacturers to develop greener alternatives and recycling programs. In response to environmental concerns, some manufacturers are initiating recycling programs for their products. For example, recycling initiatives for medical plastics are being explored, allowing certain disposable items to be repurposed instead of ending up in landfills. Manufacturers are working on redesigning disposable products to minimize their environmental impact. This includes developing products with reduced packaging, using recycled materials, and exploring alternative, more sustainable materials for production.

Market Trends

• Rise of Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring: The adoption of telemedicine and remote patient monitoring is influencing the demand for specific disposable medical products. For example, there is a growing need for disposable wearable sensors and remote monitoring devices that patients can use at home. This trend is unique as it reflects the changing dynamics of healthcare delivery and the need for disposable products tailored to remote care. The rise of telemedicine has driven the demand for wearable medical devices, such as disposable patches that monitor vital signs, adhesive sensors for remote diagnostics, and even disposable smart inhalers. These devices enhance remote patient monitoring capabilities. Disposable devices are increasingly being designed to integrate with healthcare apps and platforms, allowing patients to monitor their health and share data with healthcare providers. This trend aligns with the growing interest in patient-centred care and telehealth services.
• Customization and Personalization: In response to the diverse needs of healthcare providers and patients, there is a trend toward customization and personalization of medical disposable products. For instance, custom-fit disposable surgical drapes and gowns are gaining popularity to enhance comfort and infection control. This trend reflects a shift from one-size-fits-all products to more tailored solutions in the market. Customized and personalized medical disposables are designed with the patient's comfort and needs in mind. This approach acknowledges the diversity of patient populations and aims to improve their overall healthcare experience. Customization can also lead to reduced waste as products are tailored precisely to the required specifications, minimizing excess materials. This aligns with both sustainability goals and cost-effectiveness.

Competitive Landscape

Prominent companies are making substantial investments in research and development to pioneer cutting-edge medical disposable products that align with emerging trends in the healthcare industry. This includes the creation of materials that exhibit advanced biocompatibility, sustainability, and resistance to infections. These firms are also dedicated to designing disposable products tailored to specific medical procedures. Furthermore, leading companies are consistently expanding their product portfolios to encompass a wide range of medical disposables, catering to diverse medical disciplines and procedures. This diversification ensures they can provide comprehensive solutions that meet the unique requirements of various healthcare settings. In addition to these efforts, key players are proactively venturing into new markets and regions to address unmet healthcare demands. They leverage their expertise and extensive distribution networks to supply medical disposables to underserved areas, thus contributing to enhanced global healthcare access. Furthermore, these companies are establishing collaborations with healthcare institutions, research centres, and regulatory bodies, fostering knowledge exchange, facilitating compliance with regulations, and driving mutual growth. In alignment with this, numerous major players are placing a strong emphasis on sustainability by exploring eco-friendly materials and eco-conscious manufacturing processes for their disposable products. These initiatives resonate with the increasing environmental consciousness and consumer demands for greener healthcare solutions. Major players mentioned in the market are Bayer AG, Becton, Dickinson and Company, Smith & Nephew plc, Cardinal Health, Inc, Medline Industries, 3M, Med-Con (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Medtronic Inc, Boston Scientific Corporation, Johnson and Johnson, Abbott Laboratories, B. Braun Melsungen AG, Terumo Corporation, Gerresheimer AG, Kimberly-Clark Corporation , Baxter International Inc., Nipro Corporation, Ammex Corporation, Zimmer Biomet and Stryker Corporation.

Key Developments

• In 2023, AMMEX Corp. has recently launched a new lineup of disposable gloves. These gloves are designed to protect users in various situations, including medical settings.
• In December 2022, the largest and most varied manufacturer of healthcare goods in the world, Johnson & Johnson, stated that the acquisition of Abiomed, Inc. was complete. Abiomed will now function as a stand-alone company within Johnson & Johnson's MedTech division. Abiomed is now a part of Johnson & Johnson.
• In July 2022, Quipt Home Medical Corp. and Cardinal Health at-Home, a division of Cardinal Health, Inc., states that Quipt will offer to sell disposable medical supplies while Cardinal will supply and distribute them across the country.
• In January 2022, Maskc launched the KF94 Face mask, consisting of four layers, i.e., a non-woven external layer, two non-woven and meltblown central layers, and a soft inner layer that is gentle on the skin in United States.

Covid-19 Impacts

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the global medical disposable products market by increasing demand for certain products, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities, fostering innovation, and changing the regulatory landscape. One of the most immediate and significant impacts of the pandemic was the exponential increase in demand for PPE, including masks, gloves, gowns, face shields, and respiratory protection. Healthcare facilities, frontline workers, and the general public required an unprecedented quantity of disposable PPE to reduce the spread of the virus. This surge in demand led to shortages and price spikes, highlighting vulnerabilities in the supply chain. The pandemic exposed weaknesses in the supply chain for medical disposable products. Many manufacturers faced disruptions due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and shortages of raw materials. This led to delays in production and distribution, exacerbating the shortage of critical medical supplies. Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA in the United States and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), adapted quickly to streamline the approval process for certain medical disposable products. Emergency use authorizations were granted for new products and modifications to existing ones, allowing for a faster response to the crisis. The urgency of the pandemic drove accelerated research and development efforts in the medical disposable products market. Manufacturers sought to innovate and create new products, such as reusable respirators, antimicrobial coatings for disposable items, and improved ventilator components. This focus on innovation has the potential to lead to long-term advancements in the industry. The pandemic heightened awareness of infection control measures not only in healthcare settings but also in public spaces and everyday life. This increased awareness is likely to have a lasting impact on the demand for disposable infection control products even after the pandemic subsides.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Medical Disposable market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Regional & Country-wise Medical Disposable market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions & Countries covered in the report

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)
• Middle-East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa)

By Product

• Sterilization Supplies
• Drug Delivery Products
• Diagnostics and Laboratory Disposables
• Disposable Masks
• Non-woven Disposables
• Disposable Gloves
• Dialysis Disposables
• Wound Management Products
• Incontinence Products
• Respiratory Supplies
• Disposable Eye Gear
• Hand Sanitizers
• Others(Disposable Protective Clothing, Bedpans, Urine bags and sharps Containers)

By Raw Material

• Plastic Resin
• Nonwoven Material
• Rubber
• Paper and Paperboard
• Metals
• Glass
• Others

By End User

• Hospitals
• Outpatient/Primary Care Facilities
• Home Healthcare
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Medical Disposable industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.