Gary Laustsen, professor of nursing at Linfield University, presents a conversation about the effects of climate change on healthcare at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 21. The event, which is open to the public, will be held on Zoom. Registration is required at https://inside.linfield.edu/faculty-resources/faculty-lecture-series.html.
His talk, titled “Caring for the climate changed: Health, environment and policy for the common good,” will look at some of the health impacts of climate change, air and water quality and toxic chemical exposure. Examples from Oregon will demonstrate the need for local engagement. Recommended actions by social and healthcare leaders include work to build environmental health literacy and empowerment, advocacy for regulatory protection and enforcement, and environmental engagement within healthcare, educational, and social systems.
“Many healthcare providers focus only on the patient without recognizing or diminishing the impact of environmental influences on health,” Laustsen said. “I believe we need to recognize that by taking care of the Earth, we can also improve the health of the people. My years of volunteering as a nurse practitioner for uninsured populations has also helped me realize how environmental degradation has a disproportionate impact on those with less financial and social power.”
Laustsen joined the Linfield University-Good Samaritan School of Nursing in 2020 and currently coordinates the school’s Master of Science in Nursing program, which places a particular emphasis on environmental leadership in nursing. He has worked for more than ten years as a RN, 23 years as a family nurse practitioner and 29 as a nurse educator. He was recognized as the 2011 Nurse Practitioner of the Year in Oregon and a fellow with the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and American Academy of Nursing in 2013.
His research interests include the ecological aspects of healthcare and nursing, and healthcare needs in rural settings.
“Climate change is having impacts on global health,” he said. “We need to become informed, inspired and involved to improve the health of our earth, our people, and ourselves.”
The presentation is part of Linfield’s Faculty Lecture Series, which shares the professional work and interests of the university faculty with the university and local communities. More information on the series, including the full schedule, is available at https://inside.linfield.edu/faculty-resources/faculty-lecture-series.html. The series is sponsored by Linfield’s Office of Academic Affairs. For additional information, contact 503-883-2224.
