NYAM and Yale Center Collaborate for Sustainable Health Systems
The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) is embarking on an exciting partnership with the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health. The two organizations are co-hosting an influential summit called "Health Systems Implementing Climate Action 2025" that promises to significantly impact health systems and their ability to adapt to climate change.
Summit Highlights and Focus Areas
Set to occur during the vibrant Climate Week NYC, this summit aims to bring together a diverse array of health sector professionals, business leaders, and advocates for dialogue and innovation. The organizers focus on developing low-carbon, resilient healthcare systems that not only mitigate climate-related health impacts but also protect the most vulnerable communities.
Throughout the day, participants will engage in discussions centered on pioneering research and practical strategies aimed at achieving climate readiness within health systems. By examining scalable solutions, the summit will highlight the connection between environmental sustainability and health equity—essentially ensuring that both areas are enhanced in tandem.
When Science Meets Storytelling
This year's event features prominent speakers blending science with compelling storytelling. One such speaker is Kate Marvel, PhD, who specializes in making complex climate science accessible to the public. Her contributions include pivotal roles in the U.S. Fifth National Climate Assessment and well-received TED Talks. Her work demonstrates the vital role narratives play in igniting awareness and prompting action.
Another speaker, Kim Stanley Robinson, known for works like The Ministry for the Future and the Mars trilogy, uses the medium of science fiction to address critical issues concerning humanity’s relationship with the planet. With accolades from influential figures such as Barack Obama and Bill Gates, his storytelling approach inspires a collective vision of what the future could hold.
The Urgency of Addressing Climate Challenges
The effects of climate change on health systems are not only imminent but grave. Recent estimates indicate potential preventable deaths reaching 14.5 million globally, alongside staggering health care costs of $1.1 trillion and economic losses projected at $12.5 trillion by mid-century. Such alarming statistics underscore the urgency with which health systems must act.
Ann Kurth, PhD, CNM, MPH, President of NYAM, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Climate change impacts everyone, but it hits some people worst and first. This tends to be those who come from populations that have been historically marginalized. We’re working to change that." This statement highlights the necessity of prioritizing equity in climate action within healthcare.
Furthermore, Jodi Sherman, MD, who leads the Yale Program on Healthcare Environmental Sustainability, added that the ramifications of extreme weather are felt beyond the immediate environment of healthcare organizations. For example, local care can be compromised if medical supply chains are disrupted by natural disasters, regardless of the distance. Thus, it becomes crucial for health systems to enhance their resilience against unforeseen shocks to ensure continuous, quality care delivery.
Event Details and Participation
The summit will showcase an array of presentations covering groundbreaking innovations aimed at climate readiness, alongside panel discussions with industry leaders. Additionally, there will be sessions focused on adapting sustainable practices in healthcare delivery. One key highlight will be the official launch of the Commonwealth Fund State Scorecard on Health System Climate Vulnerability and Performance.
Individuals interested in being part of this transformative event can register online. The summit is particularly geared toward business leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and community advocates dedicated to advancing climate action within health systems. The venue for this important event is the New York Academy of Medicine, situated at 1216 Fifth Avenue.
About New York Academy of Medicine
Established over 178 years ago, the New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) stands as a leading voice in the pursuit of innovation in public health. With the expertise of about 1,800 Fellows, a historic medical library, and its distinguished research initiatives, NYAM is dedicated to fostering actionable solutions to today’s pressing health challenges. For more information, please visit www.nyam.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the summit being hosted by NYAM and Yale?
The summit aims to explore innovative solutions for creating low-carbon, resilient healthcare systems while addressing climate change and health equity.
Who are the featured speakers at the summit?
Notable speakers include Kate Marvel, PhD, and Kim Stanley Robinson, who will discuss the relationship between science, climate, and storytelling.
How can I participate in the summit?
Individuals can register online and participate in discussions, presentations, and networking with leaders in healthcare, policy, and research.
Where will the summit take place?
The event will be held at the New York Academy of Medicine, located at 1216 Fifth Avenue.
What topics will be covered during the presentations?
Topics will include climate readiness innovations, strategies for implementing sustainable practices in healthcare, and the launch of the Commonwealth Fund State Scorecard.
