Extreme heat events pose a significant health threat in Canada, as demonstrated by the 2021 heat wave that claimed over 600 lives in Western Canada. Most heat-related deaths occur indoors and are preventable. Primary care providers (PCPs), who serve 88% of Canadians, are uniquely positioned to identify and support at-risk individuals. Heat Smart, in alignment with Heat Alert and Response Systems (HARS), aims to bridge the gap between primary care and public health to enhance community resilience and reduce health inequities related to extreme heat events.
This randomized control trial in Eastern Ontario will examine whether patients receiving tailored digital health messages from their family physician or nurse practitioner change their behaviour to protect themselves from extreme heat-related illness. The Heat Smart study will:
* Assess risk: Analyze electronic medical records and patient surveys to identify vulnerable individuals. * Deliver tailored messages: Send personalized digital guidance via e-mail or text, offering heat safety advice and local resource information in English and French. * Issue early warning alerts: Notify at-risk patients of upcoming heat events, prompting action. * Evaluate impact: Use surveys and health data to measure effectiveness in reducing heat-related health impacts.
Short-term outcomes include increased awareness and preparedness among patients about heat-related health risks. Long-term goals involve scaling the intervention across Canada to reduce heat-related illnesses, enhance social connectedness, and decrease healthcare utilization.
Adults (18 years and older)
Patients must be registered with a participating PCP.
They must have had at least one visit with their PCP in the past two years to ensure active engagement.
Participants must have an active email, cell phone or messaging service (SMS) to receive Heat Smart digital messages.
None
Hopital Montfort
Lead sponsor
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute
Collaborator