JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Heatwave significantly impacts ecosystems and human health, especially among vulnerable populations, and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Besides directly linking to climate-sensitive health outcomes, heat waves indirectly have increased the burden on our healthcare systems. Previous literature has highlighted the association between temperatures and mortality; however, the understanding of heatwave impacts on healthcare services is still lacking

Objective:

This paper presents the protocol for a systematic review that aims to provide evidence of the impact of heat waves on healthcare services in developing countries

Methods:

We will identify the peer-reviewed studies from three online databases comprised of the Web of Science, PUBMED, and SCOPUS from 2002 to 2022, using the PRISMA guidelines. Quality assessment will be conducted using The Navigation Guide checklist. Key search terms included heatwaves, extreme heat, hospitalization, outpatient visit, burden, health services, and morbidity

Results:

This proposed systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD4202236547). This systematic review will provide insight into the impact of heatwaves on healthcare services in developing countries, especially on emergency department visits, ambulance calls out, hospital admission, and outpatient department visit

Conclusions:

Apart from identifying the research gaps for future research, especially in developing countries, the outcomes from this review are expected to assist policymakers and relevant stakeholders in strategizing a comprehensive response plan to combat the heat and improving resilience in healthcare systems Clinical Trial: PROSPERO with registration number CRD42022365471