Clinical Medicine and Climate Change
Pablo E Morejón-Jaramillo1, Nicholas J Nassikas1, Mary B Rice1
1Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215-5491, USA.
Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America
|November 16, 2023
Summary
The healthcare system significantly contributes to climate change and faces disruptions from it. This article details these impacts and offers clinical guidance for practitioners on climate-related health effects and workforce adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Climate Science
- Public Health
Background:
- The healthcare sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions.
- Climate change poses significant risks to healthcare delivery and patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the dual role of the healthcare industry in climate change.
- To outline the effects of climate change on patient care.
- To provide actionable recommendations for healthcare professionals.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on healthcare's environmental impact.
- Analysis of climate change effects on health systems.
- Development of clinical recommendations and workforce strategies.
Main Results:
- Healthcare's contribution to emissions is substantial.
- Climate change disrupts healthcare services and exacerbates health issues.
- Clinical guidance and workforce development are crucial for adaptation.
Conclusions:
- Addressing healthcare's climate footprint is essential.
- Healthcare practitioners must be equipped to manage climate-related health challenges.
- Proactive strategies are needed to build a resilient health workforce.
Keywords:
Air pollutionCO(2) emissionsClimate changeGreenhouse effectGreenhouse gas emissionsImproving health carePhysician-patient relationshipMore Related Videos
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