GIRFT has developed a methodology to produce national guidance for decarbonising healthcare pathways in practical ways. This approach has been piloted in bladder cancer.
The NHS has a significant carbon footprint, producing 4-5% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions and has set a net zero target by 2045. Meeting this target is crucial to help avoid the most severe effects of climate change. GIRFT is aiming to produce more guidance on sustainable care pathways and is seeking the involvement of GPs to ensure the pathway design across secondary and primary care includes contributions and recommendations from the wider primary care network. This presents opportunities to support community-based care often seen as more environmentally sustainable and often preferred by patients.
During the next 12 months we intend to address the following care pathways:
- Hip arthritis
- Knee arthritis
- Urinary tract stones
- Surgical dermatology
We would like to hear from qualified GPs, ideally working in an extended role, with system level experience and a passion to help improve sustainability within the health service. The role will include:
- Contributing to a short-life clinical reference group of 8-12 interested clinicians (including multidisciplinary members representing Royal College and specialty associations).
- Regular on-line meetings (every 3-4 weeks, usually one hour) spanning 4-6 months.
- Developing key clinical recommendations for decarbonising the pathway in question.
- Contributing to timely development of the document, within a six-month timeframe
For an informal chat, contact Joseph John by email: joseph.john3@nhs.net
If you would like to apply to join a reference group, please send an abbreviated CV and cover letter (max one page) indicating your preferred clinical pathway to: girft.academy@nhs.net
The closing date is Friday 14 March 2025.
