The state of the health system has been a cause for concern in recent years. Reports show that there are workforce shortages, with healthcare professionals leaving their positions in droves. Clinicians are experiencing record levels of burnout, and 631 rural hospitals are facing imminent closure. Furthermore, extreme weather events pose a significant threat to hospitals worldwide, with one in 12 hospitals at risk of shutdown. In the United States alone, 90% of counties have experienced a weather disaster in the last decade, and 40% of Americans live in counties that faced a climate disaster in 2021. As if that weren’t alarming enough, there were 28 weather and climate disasters exceeding $1 billion in damages in 2023. With the potential for hospital closure looming, it is crucial for policymakers to consider legislative solutions to mitigate harm. However, one particular legislative package that addresses these issues, the Green New Deal for Health, has received surprisingly little attention.
The Green New Deal for Health
The Green New Deal for Health, introduced by Sen. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), aims to establish a foundation for health systems’ resilience against various threats. It seeks to improve healthcare sustainability and support patients, clinicians, and communities. Additionally, the legislation recognizes the disproportionate impact of health crises on low-income, immigrant, rural, and communities of color. Climate action within the U.S. health sector is of utmost importance, as it accounts for 8.5% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Air pollution resulting from healthcare activities is responsible for numerous health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, asthma, and dementia. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, low-income individuals, and communities of color, bear the brunt of these health burdens.
There have been notable efforts to promote climate-smart healthcare. The Joint Commission has established voluntary sustainable healthcare certification, and HHS launched a voluntary health sector climate pledge. Additionally, numerous state and local initiatives have been implemented. However, these efforts remain fragmented and lack enforceability, which aligns with the industry’s preference to maintain the status quo. Despite the clear need to expand initiatives, the Green New Deal for Health has not received substantial media coverage. One possible explanation could be the lack of bipartisan appeal and concerns about imprecise impacts. Moreover, the timing of the proposal may not align favorably with an approaching presidential election, as large funding initiatives often raise skepticism among conservative voices in health system administration.
Reframing the Deal for Acceptance
To garner greater support, it may be necessary to reframe the Green New Deal for Health. Drawing inspiration from President Obama’s 2009 stimulus, the legislation could emphasize economic benefits rather than solely environmental concerns. Presenting the package as an economic stimulus could spark interest among health systems by highlighting potential financial gains. Notably, many health systems have resisted efficiency upgrades and sustainability initiatives due to upfront costs. By focusing on the upfront funds provided by the legislation, which would support cash-strapped health systems, concerns regarding the financial burden could be alleviated. The allocation of $100 billion for the modernization, weatherization, and reduction of environmental footprints in health facilities would address critical needs. Additionally, hazard pay for healthcare professionals during and after disasters, community planning grants, and funding for healthcare sustainability and resilience research would further protect public health and support the evolving needs of the healthcare workforce.
While there has been a slight decline in U.S. emissions, it is inadequate to mitigate the impact of global warming and pollution. Legislation is needed to address climate change’s intersection with health, both within and beyond the healthcare system. Federal guidance is crucial to promote resilience and sustainability in health systems and proactively protect public health. However, to advance such legislation, it is crucial to gain support from labor unions and healthcare professionals themselves. Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals have a responsibility to advocate for legislation like the Green New Deal for Health. Without their vocal support, the legislation remains just words on paper. It is incumbent upon healthcare and hospitals to champion healthy, sustainable, and climate-resilient systems. The Green New Deal for Health should no longer be a secret, as patients will continue to require care. The question remains: Will we be prepared?
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