Optometry Australia endorses national Climate Framework for health profession colleges - Optometry Australia
Read time:1:30minOptometry Australia (OA) has endorsed the Climate Framework for Health Profession Colleges, reaffirming its commitment to supporting a sustainable, resilient and high-quality healthcare. . .
Read time:1:30minOptometry Australia (OA) has endorsed the Climate Framework for Health Profession Colleges, reaffirming its commitment to supporting a sustainable, resilient and high-quality healthcare system. Developed through a collaborative co-design process involving 26 health profession colleges across Australia, the Framework provides practical guidance to help healthcare organisations reduce their environmental impact, adapt to climate-related challenges and continue delivering high-quality care. Climate change has been identified by the World Health Organization as the greatest threat to global health in the 21st century and the Framework is part of theAustralian Government’s planto address the health and wellbeing impacts of climate change. Optometry Australia has already undertaken work to improve sustainability across its operations and support broader conversations about the role of optometry in responding to climate change. Practical resources to help identify sustainable suppliers, recycling links, tips from fellow optometrists and CPD are available for membersonline. As the health impacts of climate change continue to grow, the health sector has an important role to play in reducing emissions, adapting models of care and supporting healthier communities. The Framework outlines meaningful and measurable actions that health profession colleges can take to:develop low-emissions models of carereduce waste and emissionssupport the health workforce to lead the health system response to climate change. Optometry Australia’s Chief Clinical Officer, Luke Arundel, said addressing climate change is an important part of supporting the long-term health of Australians and the sustainability of the health sector. “Supporting optometrists and strengthening the profession remains at the centre of Optometry Australia’s work. As a health profession organisation, we also have a responsibility to consider the broader challenges affecting community health, including climate change. These priorities go hand in hand; we can continue advocating for the profession while also contributing to a healthier and more sustainable health system. ”By endorsing the Climate Framework, Optometry Australia joins the broader health sector in recognising that environmental sustainability and quality healthcare go hand in hand. The Framework provides an opportunity for organisations to share knowledge, collaborate on practical solutions and strengthen the health sector’s collective response to climate change. Optometry Australia remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen eye health, advocate for the profession and contribute to a healthcare system that delivers better outcomes for current and future generations. OA’s position statement on the need for climate action & sustainability in optometry can be viewedhere. Filed in category:Advocacy & government,Patient care & managementPost navigation