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SESSION DESCRIPTIONThis webinar, led by emergency medicine physicians at the forefront of the intersection of climate change and health, will outline the current and predicted impacts of extreme weather events on emergency departments and health care systems. Recent extreme weather events will serve as case studies as experts discuss health impacts and opportunities for preparedness and resilience planning.

Climate-related extreme weather events cause injury, illness, disruption in medical treatment, exacerbation of chronic disease, population displacement, and adverse mental health effects. These health impacts significantly increase burdens in emergency departments on the front lines of disaster leadership, response, and care for vulnerable populations.

Extreme weather events can disrupt infrastructure, including utilities, transportation, and communication systems, critical to maintaining access to emergency services and health care. Hospital supply chains may also be disrupted, leading to shortages of essential pharmaceuticals and medical devices.

LEARNING OBJECTIVESUnderstand the role of emergency medicine in preparing for extreme weather events.Discuss geographically relevant climate risks and vulnerable populations.Learn strategies for emergency department and hospital-wide resilience through case studies.