I work at a federally qualified health centre, which is federally funded to provide preventive medical care to underserved communities in the US. Outside, the air quality index (AQI) neared its maximum of 500,2 far beyond the AQI of 101-150 that is deemed unhealthy for sensitive populations. As I and other healthcare providers experienced during the NYC wildfire emergency, this leaves physicians unprepared to meet patients’ health needs when a climate crisis occurs. In New York City, there are numerous community based organisations that tackle the climate health needs of their communities. Ambulatory health networks, especially federally qualified health centres, are integral to providing preventive care that is tailored to the health needs of a given community.

Source: New York Times December 05, 2023 11:21 UTC