From Care to Climate: The Role of Physicians in Combating Climate Change and Protecting Public Health
By Mehrshad Bakhshi & Ravi Chaudhari
Spotlight Awards: Third Place
This article was awarded third place in the inaugural Perspectives on Global Health Spotlight Awards in the category of Climate Change
Joseph Vipond of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment at COP28 in December 2023.
Introduction
The escalating climate crisis presents an unprecedented threat to global health, necessitating immediate and decisive action from all sectors, particularly the medical community. Physicians, entrusted with safeguarding public health, are uniquely positioned to lead efforts in mitigating climate change and its detrimental health effects. Their roles encompass patient education, advocacy for sustainable practices, and systemic transformation within healthcare.
Educators on Climate-Related Health Impacts
Climate change exacerbates a myriad of health issues, including heat-related illnesses, respiratory disorders from deteriorating air quality, and the proliferation of vector-borne diseases. Physicians, as trusted sources of health information, have a responsibility to educate patients about these risks and promote adaptive behaviors. This involves counseling on preventive measures during extreme weather events and advising on lifestyle modifications that reduce carbon footprints. However, a study revealed that while two-thirds of physicians acknowledge the relevance of climate change to primary care, less than one-third feel compelled to discuss it with patients. Bridging this gap is imperative for proactive patient engagement.
Advocates for Sustainable Healthcare Practices
The healthcare sector significantly contributes to global carbon emissions, with estimates suggesting it would rank as the fifth-largest emitter if it were a country. Physicians can spearhead initiatives to reduce this environmental footprint by advocating for sustainable practices within their institutions. This includes promoting telemedicine to decrease patient travel, supporting the use of renewable energy sources, and minimizing waste through environmentally friendly procurement and disposal policies. The Health Service Executive's Climate Action Strategy 2023-2050 exemplifies such commitment, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050 and emphasizing the integration of sustainability into healthcare delivery.
Leaders in Policy and Systemic Change
Beyond individual practices, physicians possess the authority to influence public policy and advocate for systemic changes that address the root causes of climate change. By participating in policy development and engaging with stakeholders, they can champion regulations that prioritize public health in the context of environmental sustainability. The collaborative call to action by editors of prominent medical journals underscores the urgency for global temperature regulation, biodiversity restoration, and health protection, highlighting the critical role of the medical community in these endeavors.
Integrating Climate Education into Medical Training
To effectively combat climate-related health challenges, it is essential to incorporate comprehensive climate education into medical curricula. Initiatives like the European Network on Climate & Health Education (ENCHE) aim to equip future physicians with the knowledge to address health issues exacerbated by climate change, such as heatstroke and the resurgence of vector-borne diseases. By preparing medical students to understand and tackle these challenges, the healthcare system can enhance its resilience and responsiveness to climate-induced health threats.
Global Collaboration and Community Engagement
Physicians must also engage in global collaborations to share knowledge and strategies for climate adaptation. Uganda's implementation of a National Health Adaptation Plan, which includes climate training for healthcare workers and infrastructure strengthening, serves as a model for other nations. Such initiatives demonstrate the impact of coordinated efforts in building health systems resilient to climate change.
Conclusion
The medical profession stands at the forefront of the battle against the climate crisis. By embracing roles as educators, advocates, policymakers, and leaders in sustainability, physicians can drive meaningful change that safeguards public health and the planet. The time for action is now, and the healthcare community must rise to the occasion with unwavering commitment and collaborative spirit.
Mehrshad Bakhshi (left) is an incoming radiology resident at McGill University. Ravi Chaudhari (right) is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery resident at McGill University. They are passionate about global health, climate change and interrogating ways that healthcare providers can make impactful change in their environments. They hope to contribute to sustainability initiatives in their careers in healthcare.