Emergency specialists’ perceptions of climate-related health and education in South Africa

Abstract

Background: Climate change exacerbates existing social inequalities, placing a disproportionate burden on already vulnerable populations. As emergency care often functions as the initial point of contact for affected patients, it is crucial that these specialists understand the impacts and are appropriately trained to respond. However, it is unclear whether specialists in South Africa are equipped with the knowledge and preparedness to do so in clinical practice.
Methods: This study followed a quantitative survey design to describe emergency medicine registrars’ and physicians’ perceptions about climate change and health, climate-related health education, and self-perceived preparedness to respond to these impacts.
Results: The majority (80%, n = 16) of 20 participants (combining ‘probably’ and ‘definitely’) recognised climate-related health impacts; 70% (n = 14) believed that it would impact their own health, and 95% (n = 19) felt that it would impact their patients’ health (combining ‘agree’ and ‘strongly agree’). However, none of the participants had received any formal training on the topic, and only 3 participants (15%) indicated that they ‘probably’ have enough information to prepare and respond to the health impacts of climate change. When asked about key priorities to improve preparedness, 65% (n = 13) highlighted the importance of education and information.
Conclusion: The findings suggest a gap in preparedness and underscore the need for a climate-responsive emergency care education.
Contribution: This is the first study in South Africa to describe emergency medicine specialists’ perceptions and preparedness in relation to climate change and health, establishing a foundation for future curriculum development.