The MOUNTADAPT Community of Practice (CoP) in Selnica ob Dravi builds on the Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (RVA) for the Podravje region, which was developed in 2024. This comprehensive assessment places a strong emphasis on the healthcare sector, recognizing the growing threat of heat stress and other climate-related health risks. The CoP brings together key regional stakeholders to ensure that healthcare facilities are prepared, adaptive, and resilient in the face of climate change.
Climate Risk and Vulnerability in Healthcare
The RVA assesses how climate change—particularly extreme heat—affects public health and healthcare infrastructure. It highlights the need to:
- Evaluate the vulnerability of healthcare facilities to extreme weather events.
- Strengthen the readiness of healthcare services for climate-induced health conditions, especially heat-related illnesses.
- Integrate climate risk considerations into health planning and policy frameworks.
Developing Adaptation Pathways and Action Plans
One of the RVA’s primary outcomes is the creation of tailored adaptation pathways and action plans for healthcare institutions. These include:
- Identifying key vulnerabilities and prioritizing mitigation actions.
- Building the capacity of healthcare facilities to manage climate-related health impacts.
- Encouraging institutional adoption of climate adaptation strategies.
Enhancing Emergency Preparedness
Improving healthcare response during climate-related emergencies is critical. The CoP supports:
- Reviewing and updating emergency protocols to address climate-specific risks.
- Strengthening coordination between healthcare providers and emergency services.
Monitoring, Capacity Building, and Communication
To ensure long-term impact, the CoP focuses on:
- Monitoring the implementation and effectiveness of adaptation measures.
- Raising awareness and providing training for healthcare professionals on climate risks.
- Sharing knowledge and best practices among regional and national stakeholders.
Stakeholders Involved
- Community Healthcare Center Dr. Adolf Drolc Maribor
- University Medical Centre Maribor
- Municipality of Maribor
- Municipality of Selnica ob Dravi
- University of Maribor, Faculty of Arts
- Regional Development Agency of Podravje
- Intermunicipal Authority Maribor
Through this collaborative effort, the Selnica CoP is laying the foundation for a climate-resilient healthcare system in the Podravje region, integrating science, policy, and practice to protect public health.
