CLIMATE CHANGE POSES AN EXISTENTIAL CHALLENGE TO THE HEALTH OF THE PLANET AND ITS HUMAN POPULATION. THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY WILL HAVE TO MANAGE THE MEDICAL CONSEQUENCES WHILE DRAMATICALLY DECARBONIZING TO HEAD OFF A HOT AND DANGEROUS FUTURE.

Climate Crush Coming for Hospitals and Caregivers

Hospitals and healthcare providers face a looming onslaught of illnesses and emergencies related to climate change. As temperatures rise, tropical pathogens previously unseen in temperate zones will present caregivers with unprecedented challenges. Asthma and other pollution-related diseases will increase, especially in children and marginalized groups, requiring more pediatric, primary care and mental health services. To understand their risks and mitigation opportunities, hospitals will have to conduct climate change assessments.

Climate change significantly contributes to health inequities, affecting public health across our country, and we all have a stake in addressing it. We have pledged to work together to decarbonize healthcare and protect human health from climate change.

David J. Skorton, MD
President and CEO of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)

Read the Full Climate Change x Health Report