Introduction
Climate change represents one of the greatest threats to global public health in the 21st century. The Caribbean region faces unique vulnerabilities to climate change impacts, including rising sea levels, increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and challenges to food and water security. These changes have direct and indirect effects on human health, requiring healthcare professionals to understand and address these emerging challenges. This course aligns with PAHO's Strategic Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It supports PAHO's commitment to strengthening health systems' resilience to climate change and building capacity among health professionals to address climate-related health challenges in the Caribbean region.
Purpose of the course
The purpose of this course is to equip health professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to:
- Understand the fundamental relationship between climate change and health.
- Implement climate-resilient healthcare practices.
- Develop effective strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation in healthcare settings.
- Lead and advocate for climate action within their professional contexts.
Course competencies
This course provides opportunities for learners to develop the following competencies:
- Assessment of climate change impacts on health in the Caribbean context.
- Implementation of climate-resilient healthcare practices.
- Development of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies Integration of climate considerations into patient care and public health practice.
- Enhancement of climate change communication and advocacy skills.
Participant profile
This course is designed for:
- Healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, allied health professionals)
- Public health professionals
- Health facility administrators
- Healthcare policy makers Other health sector professionals working in the Caribbean region.
Course modality
This is a self-paced virtual course delivered through PAHO's Virtual Campus for Public Health.
Course structure and schedule
This self-paced course allows flexible completion within participants' schedules: Total Duration: 6 hours.