57. Environmental sustainability in radiology with Reed Omary, Kate Hanneman & Leteisha Stam
Dec 2, 2024
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In this insightful discussion, Reed Omary, a Professor at Vanderbilt University, joins cardiac radiologist Kate Hanneman, and Queensland Children's Hospital radiographer Leteisha Stam. They explore how radiologists can champion sustainability in healthcare. The trio emphasizes the vital links between climate change and patient care, advocating for clear definitions of sustainability. Personal stories highlight the need for small victories and community engagement, showing how even incremental changes can make a significant impact in the fight for a healthier planet.
Radiologists and radiographers play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability by transitioning personal efforts into workplace initiatives.
The concept of planetary health emphasizes the interconnectedness of human health and environmental health, broadening the scope of sustainability practices in healthcare.
Collaborative 'green teams' are essential for implementing sustainable practices in radiology, creating an environment that supports staff engagement and shared successes.
Deep dives
The Role of Sustainability in Radiology
Sustainability in radiology is emerging as a crucial concern, significantly influencing practices in healthcare. Professionals like Kate Hanneman and Letitia Stamm emphasize the importance of radiologists recognizing their role in environmental sustainability, transitioning from personal sustainability efforts into workplace initiatives. This shift is exemplified by discussions around energy use in imaging technologies, particularly how radiologists can actively contribute to reducing waste and energy consumption. The interconnectedness of individual actions and environmental impact is highlighted as key to fostering a culture of sustainability within the healthcare sector.
Understanding Planetary Health
The concept of planetary health is increasingly recognized as vital in discussions about environmental sustainability. It encapsulates the interconnection between human health and the health of the planet, which goes beyond just climate change to include how various systems interact. By framing sustainability within this broader context, healthcare professionals can more effectively communicate the importance of eco-friendly practices. This holistic view helps to clarify the relationship between actions—like reducing waste and energy consumption—and their direct benefits to both patient care and the global environment.
Implementing Effective Change
Introducing sustainable practices in radiology requires a collaborative approach that engages staff across different roles. Emphasizing co-benefits—such as improved patient care and reduced costs—can motivate overworked healthcare professionals to participate in sustainability initiatives. Successful collaborations often involve forming dedicated 'green teams,' which foster a sense of ownership and agency among staff. By sharing successes and encouraging team involvement, healthcare organizations can create a supportive environment for implementing sustainable practices without overwhelming employees.
Countering Deflection and Doomism
Discussions around climate change are shifting from outright denial to a more widespread sense of doomism, where individuals feel that it's too late to make a difference. This sentiment can discourage action and engagement, particularly among those who would otherwise support sustainable initiatives. Consequently, healthcare professionals are urged to foster a sense of optimism, focusing on achievable changes and celebrating small victories that contribute to sustainability. This positivity can reignite passion and commitment among colleagues, transforming their outlook on environmental efforts.
Engaging Patients in Sustainability
Incorporating patients into sustainability conversations is essential for fostering a broader understanding of healthcare’s environmental impact. Health professionals can communicate how sustainable practices not only benefit the planet but also improve patient care. This dual focus strengthens the argument for implementing eco-friendly initiatives by linking them directly to positive health outcomes. Engaging with patients creates a supportive community that values both environmental sustainability and personal health, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in this area.
Reed is joined by Kate and Lateisha for a chat about radiology and planetary health and what we can do as radiologists and radiographers to make a difference, and to be leaders of change. Andrew and Frank chat about Monty Python and ponder the lifting of heavy weights for energy storage.
Reed Omary is Professor of radiology at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville, USA. He’s the author of The Green Leap sustainable healthcare blog, and has also founded a sustainable healthcare nonprofit called The Greenwell Project. Kate Hanneman is a cardiac radiologist and Associate Professor at University Medical Imaging Toronto. Latiesha Stam is a radiographer at the Queensland Children's Hospital and Chairperson for the Children's Health Queensland Green Team.
