The sustainability of the healthcare: a cross-sectional study among Italian JCI-accredited hospitals

Background: The health sector is characterized by dual aspects in relation to climate change and its impact on human health. To consider firstly the treatment of resulting health problems; and secondly the representation of environmental impact as a primary cause. Consequently, a number of certification bodies have indicated their intention to incorporate sustainability criteria into their certification processes. The objective of this study is to analyze the present sustainability practices of JCI-accredited hospitals in Italy. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted using a 15-question questionnaire that was disseminated to all Italian JCI-accredited facilities. The 15 questions were structured according to the five domains outlined in the Global Green and Healthy Hospitals. These questions were both open questions regarding organizational challenges, achievements, and future strategies related to sustainability. In addition, there were closed questions for data on specific practices with multiple-choice formats. Results: A response rate of 95.2% was obtained, with a geographical distribution showing a prevalence of facilities in northern Italy (55%). Statistically significant differences were not observed between Northern, Central and Southern Italy with regard to years of accreditation, number of beds, presence of sustainability committees or presence of environmental risk assessments in the risk plan. The analysis of the GHI’s five domains reveals an average of approximately 60% of the responses indicating the presence of figures responsible for environmental sustainability, as well as for the analysis of environmental risks within the different company risk plans. With regard to the presence of a sustainability committee, 75% of the facilities indicated that they had one. In addition, the findings reveal that a significant proportion, close to (55%) of facilities have adopted strategies to mitigate waste generation within the supply chain, with 85% of facilities that adopt strategies reporting the implementation of specific measures to reduce waste. Conclusion: The issue of sustainability is becoming increasingly central to healthcare organizations, especially those accredited by the JCI. This is being addressed through the establishment of intra-company committees and the incorporation of environmental considerations into company procedures and regulations. This development signifies a preliminary step towards a paradigm shift within the Italian healthcare system, with the intention of incorporating environmental impact considerations into its accreditation requirements.