Impact of Climate Change on Physical Health and Health Care System. A Scoping Review

Abstract

Climate change is an escalating global threat to physical health and the resilience of healthcare systems. This scoping review synthesizes current evidence on both the direct and indirect effects of climate change on physical health, with implications for healthcare infrastructure, service delivery, and workforce capacity. Direct effects include heat-related disorders and cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, while indirect effects encompass vector- and water-borne diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and occupational health hazards. Vulnerable populations—including children, older adults, and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups—experience disproportionate impacts, worsening existing health inequities. The review further identifies significant strains on healthcare systems, including infrastructure weaknesses, increased disease burden, supply chain disruptions, workforce shortages, and economic consequences. Adaptation and mitigation strategies such as climate-resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, public awareness initiatives, and policy integration are critical to enhancing system preparedness. Despite increasing recognition of these issues, research gaps—especially in low- and middle-income countries—persist. This review underscores the pressing need for integrated, equity-focused, and interdisciplinary approaches to safeguard physical health and enhance healthcare systems in the face of a changing climate.