Are we ready for it? Health systems preparedness and capacity towards climate change-induced health risks: perspectives of health professionals in Ghana

Abstract

ABSTRACTHealth systems and infrastructure have been suggested to be overwhelmed by the large-scale public health risks from climate change. With weak health systems, the impact is estimated to be far greater in developing countries, which are already over-burdened with poor health outcomes. Yet, there is limited knowledge about the preparedness and capacities of health institutions and professionals in developing countries to respond to climate change health risks. Drawing from the World Health Organization’s framework on health system capacities, effective response and emergency preparedness, and using mixed methods research design, we examined capacities and preparedness of public health professionals in Ghana to manage climate change-health risks and emergencies. Qualitative interviews (n = 20) and quantitative surveys (n = 99) were conducted with health professionals in Savelugu-Nanton and Ada East Districts in Ghana. The study found that, capacity and preparedness of health professionals and institutions to respond to climate change related health emergencies were weak in the study districts. Based on our findings, we recommend the development and implementation of a comprehensive policy on climate change and health to build capacities of health institutions and professionals, improve climate change health research, and increase funding to climate change programmes and activities in local communities.