Table 1 Application of GP clinical principles to climate change dilemmas
GP axiom | Clinical application | Climate change application |
|---|---|---|
First do no harm | Consider potential risks of all clinical management plans | Ensure responses and solutions to climate change don’t do harm |
Manage Uncertainty | Utilise probabilistic decision making in relation to uncertain diagnosis or management | Undertake major societal decisions in context of scientific uncertainty about climate change predictions |
Appreciate Complex Adaptive Systems | Understand the interconnectedness of human biological systems | Appreciate the interdependence of geological, atmospheric, water and food systems |
Maintain homeostasis | Recognise the prominence of balance as a cornerstone of human wellbeing | Recognise the balance of earth systems as an indispensable requirement for supporting life |
Value generalism | Apply a broad psychosocial approach to maximise patient wellbeing | Don’t lose sight of the “big picture” in regards to climate change and recognise the need for contributions from multiple disciplines |