Original Article: Climate-Smart Health Care: Role of the Family Physician

"Climate-Smart Health Care: Role of the Family Physician.”

July 2026

AFP

Bhargavi Chekuri, MBBS, MD, MS, and Logan Harper, MD, Assistant Professors of Family Medicine at CU Anschutz are co-authors of a recently published article in the American Family Physician (AFP) journal titled, “Climate-Smart Health Care: Role of the Family Physician.”

The article highlights the impact of climate change on both patient and global health. More frequent and severe weather events, including extreme heat, along with worsening air pollution, contribute to increased all-cause mortality, cardiovascular and respiratory disease, mental health challenges, and a growing burden of vector-borne illnesses. Vulnerable populations, including children, outdoor workers, people experiencing housing insecurity, and low-income communities, are especially at risk.

When asked what this work means to her, Dr. Chekuri said, “Family Medicine providers are on the frontlines of managing impacts of record-setting heatwaves, worsening wildfire smoke and air quality, and increasing water stress in Colorado intensify the health impacts of climate change. This timely AFP article equips primary care clinicians with practical, evidence-based strategies to prepare their practices, protect vulnerable patients, and build resilience for a changing climate.”

For those looking for a deeper dive into these topics, Drs. Chekuri and Harper welcome learners to check out the Diploma in Climate Medicine. The next few certificates that people can enroll in are:

Read more of this article.