At a public forum with candidates for the federal seat of Curtin today, Western Australian health professionals will urge politicians to put the health of Western Australians first in the lead up to the federal election.
The forum in Shenton Park will be supported by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners , Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA), and the Public Health Association of Australia . Confirmed candidates are Ms Kate Chaney MP (Independent), Dr Viktor Ko (Labor) and Ms Kitty Hemsley (Greens). Also invited: Tom White (Liberal)
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said, "Climate change is not just a hypothetical concept. The world is already feeling the effects of climate change and we are paying the price with our health and homes.
"Health is firmly at the centre of the agenda at the upcoming federal election, and if political parties are serious about committing to protect the health of everyone in Australia, action on climate change is non-negotiable.
"As part of our comprehensive Plan for Accessible, Affordable General Practice care for all Australia, the RACGP is calling on all political parties to commit to fully fund the implementation of the National Health and Climate Strategy.
"General practice is the most efficient part of our health system. We know that keeping people well in the community and reducing demand on hospitals is good for your health, good for our economy and good for the environment.
"Our leaders must take action on climate change and invest in general practice, to ensure a robust and sustainable healthcare system which can bear the burden of increasing sickness and injuries resulting from the climate crisis."
Dr Richard Yin, spokesperson for the WA branch of Doctors for the Environment Australia said: "As doctors, we see firsthand how our changing climate is taking its toll on our communities.
"Heatwaves, floods and storms, bushfires and bushfire smoke, and drought are increasing the risks of heart attacks, cancers, asthma, infectious diseases, kidney disease and mental illness.
"Long after a natural disaster ends, its social and mental impacts will continue to impact the health of people in WA for years. In particular, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, children and marginalised populations will be disproportionately affected.
"The effects will also put additional pressure on our already overburdened healthcare system.
