As the new year in healthcare brings opportunities and possibilities, it also brings along some baggage in the form of inflation, lack of sustainability and other volatilities. Just as we should learn from our past relationships and improve in the next one, healthcare teaches us to prepare for the new year by focusing on improving sustainability.
A quick explanation of healthcare sustainability would be to provide medical care to the current generation while minimizing negative effects on the environment so that future generations are also protected.
While the worldwide healthcare sector contributes 4.6% to GHG emissions, the US healthcare sector is responsible for about 8.5% of the total emissions with hospital care, clinical services and prescription drugs being some of the biggest contributors.
Embracing sustainability in healthcare is crucial as it will not only help mitigate environmental harm but also control wastage and pollution while simultaneously protecting people’s health. Choosing sustainability in healthcare helps make our communities and environment healthier, ensuring a stronger and more resilient future for everyone.
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As the new year in healthcare brings opportunities and possibilities, it also brings along some baggage in the form of inflation, lack of sustainability and other volatilities. Just as we should learn from our past relationships and improve in the next one, healthcare teaches us to prepare for the new year by focusing on improving sustainability.
A quick explanation of healthcare sustainability would be to provide medical care to the current generation while minimizing negative effects on the environment so that future generations are also protected.
While the worldwide healthcare sector contributes 4.6% to GHG emissions, the US healthcare sector is responsible for about 8.5% of the total emissions with hospital care, clinical services and prescription drugs being some of the biggest contributors.
Embracing sustainability in healthcare is crucial as it will not only help mitigate environmental harm but also control wastage and pollution while simultaneously protecting people’s health. Choosing sustainability in healthcare helps make our communities and environment healthier, ensuring a stronger and more resilient future for everyone.
Challenges In Healthcare Sustainability
Rising healthcare costs
The rising healthcare costs in the US pose a challenge in embracing sustainability. Did you know that according to the report “The Costs of Inaction: The Economic Burden of Fossil Fuels and Climate Change on Health in the United States”, air pollution and climate change cost US healthcare about $820 million every year? It further states that the cost will increase if the problems are not addressed.
Environmental factors
Reducing the burden on nature would in return help protect the nation’s health. It not only saves lives but also reduces costs while managing the risks of future climate-related issues. It’s a win-win situation with promoting health, saving money and safeguarding the environment.
Can Outsourcing Help with Healthcare Sustainability
Improved costs
Outsourcing helps control expenses, reducing the need for in-house staff and infrastructure. This cost efficiency allows organizations to allocate resources to other critical areas.
Streamlined processes and expertise
External expertise and skill boost efficiency and help streamline processes. With professionals handling specific tasks like medical coding or billing, operations become smoother and more focused. The professionals are equipped with the right knowledge to ensure precision and compliance with industry standards.
Implementing Sustainability in Healthcare
Sustainable supply chain
As healthcare boasts of major spending, it can negotiate for sustainable procurement and resourcing. Incorporating sustainable practices into sourcing and procurement operations is a compelling way to nip the problem of healthcare causing environmental damage in the bud
Waste reduction and recycling
Another sustainability challenge in healthcare is related to waste management. Out of the approximately 14, 000 tons of waste generated every day in US healthcare facilities, about 20-25% is plastic. Did you know that about 91% of plastics, including those in healthcare, are not recycled at all? They are either dumped in landfills or have entered nature posing more threat to all living beings
Green initiatives
A good place to begin would be to introduce more energy-efficient hospitals and clinics to cut down on the energy sources coming from non-renewable sources like coal that contribute GHG to the atmosphere. Investing in sources of renewable energy like wind or solar energy would also help in making it more affordable and self-sustaining in the long run
Initiatives for Sustainable Healthcare
Telemedicine and remote monitoring
Thanks to the rise of telemedicine during the pandemic, the environment got some relief too. Did you know that telemedicine appointments can cause a 40–70 times decrease in carbon emissions when compared to in-office visits? It is a great way to provide remote care to patients while protecting the environment
Digital documentations
By switching over to Electronic Health Records (EHRs), healthcare organizations have been able to eliminate the need to have paper documentation. Not only does it make it easier to save and share medical information, but it is also a great way to save paper and reduce the GHG emissions associated with producing paper
Measuring Environmental Impact
If you want to measure your organization’s environmental impact, then you can start by setting clear objectives. Set measurable targets for metrics like energy consumption, water consumption and waste generation. These metrics need to be quantifiable for them to be accurately measured.
Once the metrics are set up with the help of the right tools and software, it will be easier for you to measure the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to judge how your organization is performing. The KPIs may need regular changes and improvements to reach the desired goal.
Future Trends For Sustainability in Healthcare
Due to healthcare’s spending ability, it is in a unique position to not only introduce sustainable initiatives but also engage with only such suppliers that run an environmentally conscious organization.
The regulatory landscape in healthcare is changing and adapting to new needs and challenges. Innovations and collaborations play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future for healthcare. The decisions we make in healthcare today will affect generations to come.
Key Takeaways
Decision makers have a responsibility to fulfill towards the environment as well. Small initiatives can go a long way in lessening GHG emissions and creating a positive impact on the environment.
Valerion Health is an outsourcing healthcare organization with over two decades of experience. We are committed to supporting healthcare providers like you to meet their goal of improving patient lives through streamlined business operations. To do so, we offer an array of solutions, including medical billing, coding, educational services and more. Our professionals can take care of your processes and free up in-house employees to make environmentally conscious decisions and focus on patient care. Reach out to us to know more.
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