Preparing Patients for Extreme Heat

Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme heat events in Canada, placing greater pressure on primary care providers to help patients avoid heat-related illness. Clinicians are advised to use targeted strategies to identify at-risk patients, such as asking about protective measures, focusing on age groups (particularly those under 5 or elderly), or screening for chronic illnesses, mental health conditions, or medications that heighten vulnerability. Tools like the National Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health’s Rapid Risk Assessment Checklist can assist in evaluating risk factors. Once at-risk patients are identified, providers should educate them about the dangers of heat and encourage them to monitor weather forecasts through Environment and Climate Change Canada’s website or the WeatherCAN app. Local radio, TV, and print media also provide critical heat alerts. Patients should be advised to check for extreme heat warnings and take precautions when temperatures rise dangerously. Assessing home cooling is another key step. Clinicians should ask whether patients have air conditioning and, if so, encourage efficient use by setting thermostats to 26°C or lower and running units during off-peak hours. For those without air conditioning, providers can recommend alternative cooling strategies, such as staying in shaded or basement areas and using fans or damp cloths. In Ontario, eligible patients on Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support can request cooling devices through their caseworker, provided a prescription indicates the device is medically necessary to prevent hospitalization or severe risk. Prescriptions for cooling devices must specify that failure to obtain one could lead to life-threatening consequences. The article emphasizes that clinicians should prioritize patients with compounding risk factors, such as older adults living alone without air conditioning and managing chronic health conditions. By integrating these steps into routine care, primary care providers can play a vital role in mitigating heat-related health risks in vulnerable populations.