RACS, with the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission), the interim Australian Centre for Disease Control (interim CDC) and other Australian medical colleges, will work together to develop low-emissions models of care and mobilise and support the health workforce to lead the health system response to climate change.
In a joint statement, released 1 October 2024, they said they are committed to supporting clinicians to deliver high-value care that protects and promotes health in a changing climate. This includes training and supporting clinicians, particularly junior doctors, to request only appropriate tests and treatments and prescribe medicines safely and appropriately.
While Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, Department of Health and Aged Care data from 2023 estimates the health system is responsible, either directly or indirectly, for 5% of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Read the full statement (PDF 4.36MB).
