The role of health workers in Kenya's Net-Zero transition: a Mixed-Methods study on healthcare system climate change...

Climate change presents a critical challenge to healthcare systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Kenya. Health workers are key to leading the transition toward a sustainable, climate-resilient healthcare system. This mixed-methods study explores the perceptions, knowledge, and roles of Kenyan health workers in mitigation and adaptation in healthcare. An online questionnaire, completed by 118 health workers, explored their understanding of climate change's impacts on health, the healthcare system's role in emissions reduction and adaptation, and current practices. A subsequent focus group discussion delved deeper into the identified themes, with a particular focus on education of health workers to support climate action. The findings reveal that while health workers are aware of the health risks posed by climate change, financial limitations and insufficient training present significant barriers to the implementation of sustainable practices. The focus group emphasized the need for practical, context-specific education to equip health workers with actionable knowledge and skills, alongside fostering emotional resilience and ethical leadership. Key recommendations include co-creating educational programs with communities and health workers, integrating climate-health modules into curricula, and leveraging innovative approaches such as peer-led workshops and social media campaigns. These insights underscore the transformative potential of education in empowering health workers to lead Kenya's transition to a sustainable, climate-resilient healthcare system.