Understanding Health Needs During Climate Crises

This study is part of a PhD project and aims to explore healthcare consumers' lived experiences during climate-related disasters, such as heatwave, tropical storms, floods and bushfires in Australia. Information collected in this study will allow us to understand the gap in the current health system in responding to climate-related disasters.

Study Purpose/Description

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges ever faced by humanity. Such events and variations not only lead to increased healthcare demands but also, can disrupt medical supply chains or the regular operation of the health system. Further, long-lasting mental health effects, such as depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, have been experienced by affected communities in Australia and other parts of the world. Learning from the lived experience of affected people who were managing a health condition (as a patient or a carer) during disasters can provide insight on what are the potential needs for disaster preparedness and how they can be addressed.

This study provides an opportunity to learn from the lived experience of healthcare consumers during climate related events. It allows us to have a better understanding of healthcare consumers’ needs during disasters and identify potential support for similar events in the future. It also provides insights into types of digital tasks and innovation that can be utilised to be prepared for health consequences of climate-change events.

What’s involved?

Prior to participation, you will be asked to indicate your consent by signing and returning this form via email to the research team. A research team member will contact you by phone, to conduct eligibility screening.

If eligible, the research team will email to schedule a one-on-one interview with you online using the Microsoft Teams platform (or over the phone or in-person), at your preferred time and date.

The interview will take about 45-60 minutes and be conducted in a place of your choice. During the interview, you will be asked questions about challenges you faced during the disaster events when you were managing a health condition (as a patient or a carer), and your responses to them.

You will receive two reminder emails after the initial invitation from us.

Want to learn more?

Recruitment criteria

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you are:

  • Aged 65 years or older, or carer of an adult 65 years or above
  • From a disaster-affected community and managing a health condition
  • Able to read and speak in English
  • Able to attend a 45-60 minute interview (online, telephone or in-person)

Benefits

If you complete the research project, you will receive a $100 Gift Pay e-Gift Card (includes 100+ in-store and online brands), as a token of our appreciation.

Study sponsor / funder

Research team contacts

02 9850 6051

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