Did you know that the healthcare industry has a bigger climate change footprint than the airline industry? In this episode of 'Around the Rheum,' hosts Dr. Daniel Ennis and Dr. Janet Pope join in conversation about how rheumatologists can help fight global warming with Dr. Stephanie Tom, the Rheumatology Division Head at Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga, ON and Vice President of the Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA).

In 2022, Dr. Tom led the creation of the CRA Planetary Health Committee that has now published a toolkit to help rheumatologists lessen our climate change impact. Dr. Tom discusses the concept of planetary health and its application in rheumatology. She emphasizes cost savings and sustainable practices such as de-prescribing and high-value patient care. Through practical examples, the conversation highlights efforts to reduce waste and improve efficiencies in clinical practice. Dr. Tom also introduces the CRA's new toolkit designed to help rheumatologists lessen their climate impact, and offers actionable advice for greening offices and advocating for environmental stewardship in healthcare.

This episode of Around The Rheum was generously supported by Choosing Wisely Canada and The Royal College Foundation.

Around The Rheum is produced by the CRA Communications Committee. A special thank you to the podcast team, Dr. Dax G. Rumsey (CRA Communications Committee Chair), Dr. Daniel Ennis (Host), Dr. Janet Pope (Host) David McGuffin (exploreproductions.ca) and Erin Stewart (CRA) for leading production.

Our theme music was composed by Aaron Fontwell. For more on the work of the Canadian Rheumatology Association, visit www.rheum.ca