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

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Video Summary

The Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS) opened its annual meeting with Helen Burstyn, CEO of CMSS, reflecting on the growth of the organization which now includes 55 specialty societies, representing about 800,000 physicians. The meeting focuses on the unique role of specialty societies in defending science and evidence-based health care, amid challenges such as climate change. Helen emphasized their updated strategic plan that outlines priorities like shared learning, capacity building, and addressing critical issues like climate and health.<br /><br />Mary Rice delivered the keynote on climate change's impact on health, especially respiratory health, emphasizing the significant effect of fossil fuel pollution and extreme weather on various health systems. She highlighted the need for clinicians to educate patients about environmental hazards, develop clinical guidelines regarding medication interactions with climate conditions, and reduce the healthcare sector's carbon footprint. Mary illustrated that the medical community must proactively engage in solutions-oriented research and advocacy for cleaner policies.<br /><br />The panel discussion, including Anne Edwards and Jennifer Jones, further explored the impact of climate on health and the role of specialty societies in advocacy and education. They emphasized the importance of patient education and communication, urging for practical guidance that is easy for patients to understand and aligns with global efforts.<br /><br />Overall, the meeting addressed the pivotal role of specialty societies in enhancing collaborative efforts to tackle climate-related health issues through education, research, and advocacy while engaging patients effectively.

Keywords

CMSS

specialty societies

evidence-based healthcare

climate change

healthcare advocacy

patient education

fossil fuel pollution

strategic plan

carbon footprint

respiratory health

clinical guidelines

environmental hazards