By… Erin King-Mullins, MD
Sustainability has become a critical concern across all sectors, and the healthcare industry is no exception. While large hospital systems often grab headlines for their sustainability initiatives, private medical practices are emerging as unsung heroes in the quest for a more environmentally friendly and sustainable healthcare system. Physicians and trainees are grappling with tough decisions regarding the type of employment. One of the many concerns pertains to sustainability (including self-preservation). Let’s explore how smaller, more agile entities are making a significant impact in this arena.
- Reduced Energy Consumption
Private practices typically operate in smaller spaces compared to sprawling hospital complexes. Whether by using smaller office spaces and on site staff, or performing operations in ambulatory surgical centers, this inherently leads to lower energy consumption for heating, cooling, and lighting. In my practice, I utilize a virtual medical assistant to help with patient callbacks, scheduling and many other administrative tasks that don’t require onsite physical presence. Many private practitioners are taking this a step further by implementing energy-efficient lighting systems, using smart thermostats to optimize temperature control, investing in energy-efficient medical equipment or using pre-owned equipment.
These measures not only reduce the carbon footprint but also lead to cost savings that can be reinvested in patient care or staff.
- Minimized Waste Generation
Smaller practices often have more control over their supply chains and waste management processes. This allows them to implement stringent recycling programs, opt for reusable or biodegradable medical supplies where possible, and carefully manage inventory to reduce expired medication waste.
By generating less waste, private practices contribute to reducing the healthcare industry’s environmental impact.
- Telehealth and Reduced Transportation Emissions
Many private practices have been quick to adopt telehealth solutions, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift has multiple sustainability benefits including: reduced patient travel, leading to lower transportation-related emissions; decreased need for physical office space and associated energy consumption; minimized use of disposable medical supplies, paper, energy, and water typically used in in-person visits.
- Personalized Care and Preventive Medicine
Private practices often excel at providing personalized care and focusing on preventive medicine. Numerous goals can be achieved with this approach. Fewer unnecessary tests and procedures reduce medical waste and cost. Earlier interventions can prevent more resource-intensive treatments later. This can all lead to better patient outcomes, which can mean fewer emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and their associated environmental costs. In addition, it can reduce after hours and weekend calls, leading to less healthcare worker burnout, less turnover, and longevity in practice.
- Efficient Resource Utilization
With tighter budgets and more direct oversight, private practices often achieve higher efficiency in resource utilization. Streamlined appointment scheduling maximizes practitioner time and reduces idle equipment usage. Careful selection of multi-purpose equipment to minimize redundancy. Optimizing use of space, reduces the need for expansive, energy-hungry facilities. Other ways to improve resource utilization and even generate additional revenue streams are sub-leasing or cohabitation of medical space. Unique situations can allow for practical use of physical space and resources. Early on after the birth of my son, and my practice, I took advantage of the low volumes and excess space to care for my child on site. Participation in research studies led to developing a research department. Some of the equipment funded by participation can be used in direct patient care, reducing cost for the practice.
- Community Engagement and Education
Private practices are often deeply embedded in their local communities. Their associated healthcare provided are trusted experts in the community and understanding the unique needs of the area. Practices can educate patients on the health benefits of sustainable living. Participation in and promotion of local environmental and targeted wellness initiatives sets an example for sustainable business practices in the community. This year I hosted my first community Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month event. It was family friendly and provided education about screening, and healthy eating.
While the contributions of individual private practices may seem small, their collective impact on healthcare sustainability is significant. By operating more efficiently, embracing technology, focusing on preventive care, and engaging with their communities, these practices are proving that sustainability in healthcare isn’t just the domain of large institutions. The ability to adopt swift change as necessary for the betterment of the environment, patients and staff allows for immediate change in outcomes. As we move towards a more environmentally conscious future, the role of private practices in fostering sustainability in healthcare and the environment will only continue to grow. Most importantly, the culture and care that can be created in the workplace can lead to sustainability of the most important resources of all…the human resources.
Erin King-Mullins, MD, FACS, FASCRS
Atlanta, GA
Dr. Erin King-Mullins is a double board-certified general and colorectal surgeon. She transitioned to private practice in 2022 by founding Colorectal Wellness Center after serving as Faculty/Research Director for an Atlanta-based colorectal fellowship program. She has a husband with whom she shares an amazing, blended family. The kids keep them pretty busy, but their favorite times are spent on warm sunny beaches.