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As climate-related disasters intensify, health care workers in British Columbia are confronting new challenges that pose risks to both their physical and mental well-being. While much attention has been given to the health impacts of extreme weather events on the general population, less focus has been placed on the toll these events take on those responsible for emergency response and medical care.
B.C. has witnessed an increase in climate-related crises in recent years, including the devastating 2021 heat dome that resulted in over 600 deaths and widespread strain on emergency services. Wildfires have forced thousands to evacuate their homes, exposing health care workers to extreme conditions while they continue to provide essential care.
Rising Health Risks for Frontline Workers
Interviews with health care professionals—including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and emergency responders—highlighted the severe health impacts they face during these crises. Many described exposure to extreme heat and poor air quality, particularly those working in the field or in facilities lacking adequate cooling and air filtration systems.
Beyond physical risks, mental health concerns have also escalated. Many health care workers reported experiencing burnout, stress, and trauma, particularly when emergency response capabilities were overwhelmed. For instance, during the 2021 heat dome, ambulance wait times stretched up to 16 hours in some areas, leaving responders unable to provide immediate care to all in need.
Systemic Challenges Compound the Crisis
The strain of climate-related emergencies is further exacerbated by long-standing issues in B.C.’s health care system. The COVID-19 pandemic left many facilities understaffed, forcing workers to take on longer shifts during climate disasters. Additionally, logistical hurdles—such as impassable roads due to flooding—made it difficult for medical professionals to reach patients or even their workplaces.
One health worker described the ethical dilemmas they faced: “It was really challenging during the heat dome to provide adequate cooling for people when you’re supposed to follow infection prevention and control guidelines about not having fans… How do I prioritize the acute risk of heat versus the more delayed risk of COVID infection?”
Building a Resilient Health System
Efforts are being made to better protect health workers from the dangers of climate-related emergencies. Facility upgrades, emergency response training, climate education, and mental health support initiatives have been introduced in some areas. However, the implementation of these adaptations remains inconsistent across the province.
While reducing carbon emissions is a necessary goal, experts warn that mitigation efforts should not overshadow the immediate need for adaptation measures to support frontline workers. A more balanced approach is required to ensure health professionals have the resources they need to navigate future crises.
A Call for Systemic Change
Creating a resilient health system requires transformative leadership that fosters trust, open communication, and mental health support for workers. While individual resilience is valuable, experts caution that systemic change is necessary to ensure health workers are not left to shoulder the burden of increasingly frequent and severe climate-related emergencies alone.
The future of health care in B.C. depends on a shift toward proactive risk reduction strategies, improved coordination among health authorities, and a commitment to addressing chronic staffing shortages. Recognizing health care workers as not just professionals but also members of their communities is essential in preparing for the ongoing and worsening impacts of climate change.
Disclaimer: This article is based on research and interviews conducted by The Conversation. The information presented reflects the experiences and perspectives of health care workers and does not constitute official policy recommendations. Readers are encouraged to consult health authorities for official guidance on climate and health-related matters.
