Greener and Sustainable Respiratory Care: Reducing Carbon Footprint in Healthcare

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Sean Stevens discusses environmentally sustainable respiratory care with Dr Brett Montgomery, a GP and Senior Lecturer with expertise in environmental medicine, and Clinical Professor John Blakey, Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at St. Charles Gardener Hospital.

Dr Montgomery outlined the key environmental challenges associated with respiratory care, particularly the carbon footprint of Australia's health system. Emphasising the impact of pharmaceuticals, particularly the global warming potential of hydrofluorocarbons in traditional metered dose inhalers. He mentions the importance of accurate diagnosis and alternative treatment options, including dry powder inhalers or soft mist inhalers to reduce environmental impact.

Clinical Professor John Blakey shares his perspective on aligning environmental concerns with optimising respiratory care. Stressing the importance of accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary treatments and outlines how optimising treatment can lead to better asthma control and reduced environmental footprint. He also addresses challenges related to spirometry in general practice, particularly changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

They conclude with practical advice for GPs on implementing changes to reduce their respiratory prescribing's environmental impact while maintaining optimal patient care.

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