In a fresh move to combat climate change and progress NHS net zero targets, the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has launched a new toolkit to help doctors decarbonise their practices.
The Green Physician Toolkit features a range of tools that outline:
- the link between climate change and health;
- high level actions that can improve sustainability;
- examples of best practice through detailed case studies; and
- key resources to improve sustainability.
Doctors are also advised to reduce unnecessary prescribing through shared decision-making, educate patients about climate change, and limit diagnostic activities when clinically appropriate.
“Those working in the NHS will be some of the first to see the health effects of climate change, if they have not done so already,” said the RCP’s academic vice president, Professor Ramesh Arasaradnam.
“The need to act has never been more urgent and we hope that our Green Physician Toolkit will support the physician community with small steps that can make a difference.”
National Health Executive’s latest digital magazine features pieces on the cardiovascular effects of air pollution, the benefits of green spaces, and the sustainability trail-blazers across NHS Wales.
Prof Arasaradnam added: “It can of course be challenging to prioritise sustainability at a time when there is very high demand for clinical care, but we have to keep in mind that reducing climate change and its health impacts is part of reduced pressure on the NHS in the long-term.”
The toolkit follows on from the RCP’s position paper last year that called on the government and NHS to take a range of measures to ensure sustainability.
The news also comes shortly after Clean Air Day, when the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health asked the new government to introduce air quality targets that are more in line with the World Health Organisation and deliver a strategic approach to tackle the issue.
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