Climate change is exacerbating health risks worldwide, from extreme heat events to flooding and hurricanes. Strengthening primary health care (PHC) is crucial for building climate-resilient health systems. PHC can address climate-related health impacts like non-communicable diseases, malnutrition, and infectious diseases. Key strategies include investing in PHC workforce capacity, integrating climate and health data, and promoting integrated models of service delivery. While adaptation is essential, rapid reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are equally important. PHC professionals can play a role in both climate adaptation and mitigation by promoting healthy behaviors and advocating for sustainable policies. The World Health Organization’s Fourteenth Global Programme of Work provides a framework for these efforts, emphasizing multisectoral action and the importance of health in all policies.
