Protecting Patient Health in a Changing Climate: A New Imperative for Medical Leadership (Opening Plenary)-Opening Plenary - Protecting Patient Health in a Changing Climate

Opening Plenary - Protecting Patient Health in a Changing Climate - PPT Powerpoint

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The Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS) is a collective organization consisting of 55 specialty societies representing 800,000 physicians. CMSS concentrates on advancing the expertise and collaborative efforts of these societies to support physicians and enhance patient care. Their mission emphasizes high-quality, evidence-based healthcare, the power of diverse communities, and maintaining a unified voice.<br /><br />The CMSS focuses on three strategic priorities: Quality Education, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. They aim to accelerate the skills and influence of society leaders through professional groups, education, training, and mentorship while promoting a unified collective voice on crucial topics in science, medicine, and public health.<br /><br />In their 2024 Annual Meeting, a key focus was on the intersection of climate change and healthcare, highlighted by a plenary session led by Mary Rice, MD, MPH, from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Rice discussed how climate change, notably through fossil fuel burning and stressors, directly impacts human health, including its exacerbation of respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. She also emphasized the role medical professionals and societies can play in responding to these environmental threats through education, policy advocacy, and incorporating climate considerations into clinical guidelines and patient interactions.<br /><br />Efforts highlighted include developing action plans for clinics to address extreme weather events, promoting clean air and reduced fossil fuel use, ensuring healthcare systems adapt to climate challenges, and advocating for research to find effective interventions. By addressing these issues, CMSS and its members aim to protect patient health in the face of a changing climate, supporting not only the immediate healthcare needs but also fostering resilience against future environmental challenges.

Keywords

Council of Medical Specialty Societies

specialty societies

physicians

patient care

climate change

healthcare

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

education and mentorship

environmental threats

policy advocacy