European health systems must prepare for heatwaves before they occur, experts warn

Health professionals across Europe are urging for a comprehensive EU climate and health strategy following severe heatwaves in June 2023. As hospitals declared critical incidents due to overwhelmed systems, experts stress the need for proactive measures rather than reactive solutions.

Urgent Call for Climate and Health Strategy

On June 25, during a record-breaking heatwave, hospitals in England and other European countries faced significant challenges. France raised its health system to the highest level of emergency mobilization amidst surging admissions. The European Federation of Nurses Associations (EFN) has backed the #HandleTheHeat campaign, advocating for a coordinated response to extreme temperatures.

Mark Wilson, Executive Director of Health Care Without Harm Europe, and Dr. Paul De Raeve, Secretary General of EFN, emphasize that the response to extreme heat must extend beyond emergency measures. Their open letter to the European Commission calls for stronger workforce protections and support for low-carbon, climate-resilient healthcare facilities.

Impact of Extreme Heat on Healthcare

According to a 2024 survey of over 1,000 UK healthcare professionals, more than 90% reported that heat stress impaired their performance, with nearly 75% deeming existing protections inadequate. Hospitals across Italy, Spain, and Germany have also reported similar crises, revealing a widespread lack of preparedness.

Health professionals are working in un-air-conditioned wards, leading to dangerous conditions for both staff and patients. The situation illustrates the urgent need for a sustainable approach to healthcare that incorporates climate resilience.

Long-Term Strategy Needed for Climate Adaptation

The World Health Organization has initiated new heat-health action plans, urging countries to implement effective adaptation strategies. However, the current NHS 10-year plan lacks specific proposals to address the intersection of healthcare and climate change, risking the prioritization of decarbonization amidst competing reforms.

Extreme weather events, including frequent heatwaves, flooding, and storms, are expected to escalate in intensity. Therefore, the integration of climate resilience into public health strategy is essential for protecting both patients and healthcare workers.

• Over 90% of healthcare professionals report heat stress affecting performance.
• Nearly 75% find current protections inadequate.
• Hospitals in France raised emergency levels during the June heatwave.