Climate Change and Pediatric Population Health Management
Abby Nerlinger1, Cole Brokamp2, William Swiatek3
1Nemours Children's Health, Delaware, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Wilmington, DE, USA.
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Climate change threatens pediatric health outcomes and management. Health systems must identify at-risk populations and use climate data, community interventions, and technology to meet quality and cost goals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental health
- Pediatric health systems
- Public health management
Background:
- Climate change poses significant risks to population health outcomes.
- Pediatric health systems face challenges in achieving cost, quality, and equity goals due to climate change impacts.
- Identifying high-risk populations is crucial for effective health system preparedness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline strategies for pediatric health systems to manage population health amidst climate change.
- To explore how health systems can maintain quality and cost goals despite climate-related public health threats.
Main Methods:
- Review of population health management strategies.
- Analysis of the role of climate data in risk identification.
- Examination of community-based interventions and technological innovations.
- Assessment of strategic payor partnerships.
Main Results:
- Integration of climate data aids in identifying vulnerable pediatric populations.
- Community-based interventions and technological advancements can enhance health system resilience.
- Strategic partnerships with payors can support quality and cost objectives.
Conclusions:
- Proactive population health management is essential for pediatric health systems facing climate change.
- Utilizing climate data and innovative strategies can improve health outcomes and system efficiency.
- Health systems must adapt to climate change to ensure equitable and high-quality care.
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