Cancer patients are often faced with numerous challenges, one of them being the frequent need to travel for their treatments. However, many are discovering the advantages of telehealth services, which not only provide a level of convenience but have also been shown to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions related to cancer care.
According to a recent study, shifting non-essential in-person oncology visits online could reduce carbon-dioxide emissions associated with cancer care by an astounding 33% nationwide. This is significant considering that, in 2018, the healthcare sector contributed to 8.5% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. This contribution to environmental degradation has led many providers to view the climate crisis as a health issue that needs to be addressed urgently.
The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its numerous challenges, has presented an unexpected opportunity to evaluate the environmental impact of healthcare practices. A study of nearly 124,000 people receiving cancer care estimated an 81% reduction in carbon-dioxide emissions during the pandemic when most oncology visits were conducted remotely. This data echoes the potential of telehealth services and local healthcare centers in significantly reducing the climate impact of healthcare.
However, this shift to online care has not been without its concerns. Some providers have expressed worries over telehealth potentially exacerbating health disparities, particularly for those patients who may not have easy access to the necessary technology. But with the significant benefits of reducing emissions and improving patient convenience, these concerns may be outweighed.
Interestingly, it’s not just the shift to telehealth that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Another study found that altering immunotherapy schedules could reduce associated carbon-dioxide emissions by 24%, indicating that medication processes also play a significant role in contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
The healthcare sector holds immense potential in contributing to environmental conservation efforts. With innovations like telehealth services and alterations to treatment schedules, it is clear that the sector can adapt to become more environmentally friendly while still maintaining, and even improving, patient care.
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