MSc Dissertation - Gaining an understanding of healthcare professionals’ perceptions and existing knowledge of climate change policy in the UK, and how these can be used to further NHS net zero ambitions.

Abstract for MSc

Introduction

This study explores healthcare professionals’ awareness and perceptions of the transition to a net zero NHS. It examines the organisational levels within the UK health service and contextualises NHS-, trust- and speciality-level policy, as well as the role of the climate change discussions in patient encounters.

Methods

An online survey was advertised through the RCP, FICM, RCPsych and CSH. Participants answered Likert scale and free text questions, and those who volunteered took part in semi-structured online interviews addressing the study themes.

Results

There were 137 survey responses and 10 interviews undertaken with a range of health professionals. Climate change was viewed as a significant future risk, and relevant for individuals’ practice and the clinical encounter. Guideline changes and journals/trial data would influence clinicians most when having climate-related discussions with patients. There was greater awareness of NHS-level initiatives compared to trust- and specialty-, and this was found to be the overall most impactful level to introduce policy. Individual action was viewed as important in combination with top-down mandates, and educating healthcare professionals was considered a more effective strategy than encouragement through trust- and NHS-wide campaigns.

Discussion

Top-down and bottom-up changes were viewed as inadequate in isolation, and an approach from multiple directions was seen as superior for maintaining change over time. Clinical leadership is vital if system changes are to be enacted, and education at trust level would help engagement with support from professional bodies and external organisations.

For more information, please feel free to contact jake.parnian@nhs.net