Desafios e perspectivas para o fortalecimento da infraestrutura hospitalar diante das mudanças climáticas

Climate change has intensified the occurrence of extreme hydrological events, such as floods, inundations, and landslides, generating significant impacts on urban infrastructure and healthcare systems. In this context, this study analyzes the challenges and prospects for adapting hospitals located in areas exposed to water-related disasters, considering the effects of climate change on healthcare capacity and hospital infrastructure. The research is characterized as exploratory and descriptive, using a qualitative approach based on a bibliographic and documentary review of scientific articles, institutional reports, and official documents related to climate change, public health, and risk management. The findings indicate that hydrological disasters compromise hospital physical structures, cause operational disruptions, reduce bed availability, and increase demand for emergency healthcare services. Emergency departments, diagnostic imaging units, and surgical centers were identified as the most vulnerable sectors during extreme events. The analysis also demonstrated that the lack of preventive planning, deficiencies in drainage systems, and the location of hospitals in flood-prone areas increase institutional risks. On the other hand, strategies such as contingency planning, workforce training, integration between healthcare services and civil defense agencies, resilient infrastructure, and nature-based solutions, including green areas and hospital gardens, contribute to strengthening the response capacity of healthcare institutions. It is concluded that the development of resilient hospitals requires integrated actions involving planning, management, infrastructure, and public policies aligned with the guidelines discussed within the framework of COP30, aiming to ensure continuity of care and population protection in the face of contemporary climate challenges.