Abstract

Aim: The healthcare sector is causing environmental degradation and contributing to climate change. However, little is known about the extent to which healthcare professionals are prepared to address the causes and consequences of climate change when they join the workforce. This research aimed to audit planetary health education within 12 health professions degrees and five health science degrees across two large health faculties in an Australian university. Planetary health teachings within the context of First Nations Australians were also assessed.

Methods: The authors examined planetary health education literature to develop a list of key search terms (n=31). Unit descriptors from eligible units offered within health professions (n = 12) and health science (n = 5) degrees were systematically searched to identify these key terms in the learning outcomes, unit synopsis and descriptions of assessment tasks. Where a term was found, further interrogation of the term’s relevance to sustainable development and planetary health was undertaken by the research team.

Results: A total of 911 units from the 17 relevant degrees were screened, including the unit title, synopsis and learning outcomes. Planetary health education was referred to in unit descriptors for 14 units (0.02%). Climate change, Sustainable Development Goals and the impact of the climate crisis on social determinants of health were the main study areas identified. Planetary health teachings did not sufficiently acknowledge First Nations perspectives.

Conclusions: Urgent, transformative action is required within the healthcare sector to promote planetary health, however opportunities to develop capacity within the future healthcare workforce must increase. Universities must prioritise planetary health education by supporting educators to better prepare healthcare professionals for the climate crisis. Prioritising Indigenous perspectives in planetary health education is critical to transform health professions curricula.

Key words: Planetary health education, climate change, sustainability, environment, First Nations, sustainable development goals, educational frameworks, health professions, social determinants, healthcare, university, tertiary curricula