Climate change and the healthcare sector

Healthcare systems produce large amounts of greenhouse gases. At the same time, extreme weather events caused by climate change are negatively impacting human health, causing injuries and worsening underlying health conditions that can lead to emergency room admissions and patient deaths.

Climate change creates additional strains on healthcare operations and infrastructure, which now need to be able to handle extreme weather events, flooding, and power outages in addition to the increased burden of climate-related illnesses. For these reasons, environmentally sustainable, prepared and resilient healthcare systems are essential for community climate preparedness.

The National Academy of Medicine and others have highlighted the importance of healthcare systems and providers taking action to limit and prepare for the health impacts of climate change. A recent report suggests many healthcare providers agree.

Public Health is helping healthcare organizations take steps towards environmental sustainability as well as adapt by preparing for the current and future effects of climate change. Below, we have highlighted some key resources on healthcare system preparedness for the health impacts of climate change.