At first glance, healthcare and the NHS might not seem to be linked to the climate crisis. And doesn't the NHS have enough on it's plate at the moment without being expected to 'green' itself?
Tune in to this great episode with GPs Dr Fran Cundill and Dr Matthew Sawyer discussing how sustainability and healthcare and inter-linked and how they impact each other, with climate action leading to healthier people and better health outcomes, and also how the healthcare system impacts on the climate.
- We can prevent 125,000 deaths (a quarter of all UK deaths) a year by meeting current climate goals
- 13% of asthma cases globally are a result of traffic fumes
- Air pollution is also a significant contributor to heart disease, and also affects children's ability to learn
- A hotter, dirtier planet leads to poorer health outcomes and more deaths
- The NHS has 1.3 million employees, making it the biggest employer in the UK
- The NHS emits about 25 million tonnes of CO2e a year, which is about 4% of the UK's total emissions
- Primary care (GPs) is about 25% of the NHS, making GPs responsible for about 5.75 million tonnes CO2e
- About 60% of General Practice emissions are from medicines, the rest is from energy usage in buildings, other supplies needed etc.
- 30-40% of medications prescribed aren't taken
- One traditional inhaler has the equivalent footprint of driving 175 miles. Newer 'dry powder' inhalers are easier to use, as effective and have the equivalent footprint of driving just 4miles! (If you use an inhaler, keep taking it as prescribed, and if you're interested in exploring other options book an appointment to see your GP!)
Dr Fran Cundill
Dr Matthew Sawyer
LISTEN...
CHECK OUT...
DO...
- Keep yourself healthy! - Eat well, exercise, spend time in nature
- If you have regular repeat medications, only order what you need, and if necessary ask your GP for a review
- Make sure you return any unused medications, and empty inhalers to the pharmacy for correct disposal
- Lobby your MP and local politicians to push for greener healthcare
- Ask your local GP practice if they are part of the Greener Practice group, and signpost them in the right direction
- Ask about patient participation groups, and if there is any way to feedback and make suggestions to your GP's practice
- See if there are any social prescribing groups or projects you can volunteer to a be a part of
Had you given much thought to the impact of healthcare on the planet?Let me know in the comments!!
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