Doctors urged to ‘Go Green’ as role models

THE World Medical Association (WMA) has urged physicians to “Go Green” – to add environmental measures and climate change awareness to their medical practices.

The WMA has offered physicians and their national medical associations a free online service, My Green Doctor .

“My Green Doctor explains how the clinic starts its own ‘Green Team’ that meets for a few minutes each week to make gradual changes.

“Each step is described, so no environmental knowledge is needed,” said the association.

The benefits of “going green” will be seen almost immediately, with savings to electricity and water bills, it added.

Dr Todd Sack, managing director of the service, said that most physicians and other health professionals who used My Green Doctor would save money by lowering office expenses.

Sack said: “Patients look to their health providers for role models.

“When we recycle, keep organic gardens, bicycle to work or drive energy-efficient cars, our patients and neighbours pay attention.”

My Green Doctor is a free service for WMA members who register at www.mygreendoctor.org.

Members receive a free waiting room certificate – available in any language – just for registering.