Our patients, our planet, ourselves

During nights off between shifts in the ED during the pandemic, I found myself doomscrolling through an endless stream of news, searching for a renewed sense of purpose and a way to regain a sense of control amid the chaos. The pandemic had already shattered my sense of security, revealing the fragility of our healthcare systems.  

Then one night I came across the heartbreaking story in “The New York Times” of Dr. Lorna Breen, a fellow emergency physician who had tragically taken her own life. Her story served as a poignant reminder of the immense mental health toll this sustained stressor was taking on healthcare professionals and the urgent need for clinicians to take stock of their own well-being during such challenging times. 

The more I reflected on the parallels between COVID-19 and climate change, the clearer it became—both crises expose everyone to risk, but not everyone is affected equally. Vulnerable populations suffer disproportionately, and misinformation and disinformation only exacerbate the challenges we face. COVID-19 served as an allegory for society’s larger response to climate change—a stark reminder that delayed action, unequal impacts, and fragmented efforts can lead to devastating consequences. 

From my readings on climate change, I discovered an even more complete framing of the situation—Planetary Health. This perspective helped me understand the interconnectedness of human and environmental health and set me on a path to integrating these insights into clinical care. Along this journey, I’ve discovered a warm, growing community of enthusiastic individuals working together across healthcare and other sectors. This experience has brought me to a whole new space, where I’ve pivoted my career to rediscover a renewed sense of purpose and to fall in love with my calling all over again. 

Planetary Health 

Planetary Health is an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding and addressing the impacts of human-caused disruptions to Earth’s natural systems on human health. Unlike a focus solely on climate change that emphasizes the effects of global warming and environmental changes, Planetary Health encompasses a broader range of environmental determinants, including biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource scarcity. The IPCC’s latest reports and the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change both underscore that the health of human populations is intrinsically linked to the health of the planet. This makes it essential for healthcare professionals to integrate this perspective into clinical practice. 

Integrating Planetary Health into clinical practice 

In today’s healthcare landscape, clinicians are increasingly confronted with the impacts of environmental change on patient health. The Lancet Countdown report highlights how climate change exacerbates health issues, such as heat-related illnesses, vector-borne diseases, and respiratory conditions caused by worsening air quality. However, the healthcare sector itself is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, responsible for approximately 8.5% of domestic greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. and about 5.2% of global carbon dioxide emissions. This paradox presents a unique challenge: while we treat patients affected by environmental changes, we also contribute to the problem. 

But we’re not just providers; we’re also patients. This work is about safeguarding the health of our patients, our families, and ourselves. By embedding Planetary Health principles into healthcare education and practice, we ensure that we’re addressing the broader environmental factors that influence health outcomes for everyone. This alignment of purpose and values can also be a powerful antidote to burnout, helping us reconnect with the deeper meaning behind our work. 

Expanding Green Healthcare efforts 

Our commitment to exceptional patient care extends beyond the bedside. Expanding Green Healthcare efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of healthcare practices is essential for creating healthier clinical environments. As highlighted in the IPCC reports and the Lancet Countdown, the health sector must lead by example in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. For instance, the supply chain of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and chemicals accounts for a staggering 82% of healthcare emissions. Addressing these areas, along with other contributors like anesthetic gases and energy use, can significantly reduce our sector’s environmental impact. 

What you can do to improve the health of patients: 

1. Join the Planetary Health community.

Your expertise is vital in this transdisciplinary field. Engage with organizations like the Planetary Health Alliance (PHA), Health Care Without Harm, and the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health to contribute to the broader conversation and initiatives aimed at protecting both human and planetary health. 

2. Use your voice as a trusted healthcare messenger. 

As a clinician, you’re a trusted voice in your community. Studies show that healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and physicians, are among the most trusted figures in society. Leverage this to advocate for environmental sustainability and educate patients and colleagues about the health impacts of climate change and the importance of Planetary Health. 

3. Align purpose to reduce burnout. 

Aligning your work with your core values and purpose can be a powerful tool in combating burnout. Engaging in Planetary Health efforts allows you to reconnect with the deeper meaning behind your work, contributing to both patient well-being and global health. This sense of purpose can help mitigate the effects of burnout, which is increasingly prevalent among healthcare professionals. 

Exceptional care in today’s world requires a broader perspective, one that considers the health of our planet as integral to the health of our patients, our families, and ourselves. By integrating Planetary Health into clinical practice and expanding Green Healthcare efforts, we can provide care that not only heals individuals but also helps clinicians align with their purpose, reduce burnout, and contribute to the well-being of our entire planet. 

This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.