Environmental sustainability and gynaecological surgery: Which factors influence behaviour? An interview study

Kim E van Nieuwenhuizen, Ingena G I A Both, Petra J Porte, Anne C van der Eijk, Frank Willem Jansen*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
36 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To assess the various factors that influence environmentally sustainable behaviour in gynaecological surgery and examine the differences between gynaecologists and residents.

DESIGN: An interview study.

SETTING: Academic and non-academic hospitals in the Netherlands.

POPULATION: Gynaecologists (n = 10) and residents (n = 6).

METHODS: Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews to determine the various factors that influence environmentally sustainable behaviour in gynaecological surgery and to examine the differences between gynaecologists and residents. By using the Desmond framework and the COM-B BCW, both organisational and individual factors related to behaviour were considered.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Factors that influence environmentally sustainable behaviour.

RESULTS: Awareness is increasing but practical knowledge is insufficient. It is crucial to integrate education on the environmental impact of everyday decisions for residents and gynaecologists. Gynaecologists make their own choices but residents' autonomy is limited. There is the necessity to provide environmentally sustainable surgical equipment without compromising other standards. There is a need for a societal change that encourages safe and open communication about environmental sustainability. To transition to environmentally sustainable practices, leadership, time, collaboration with the industry and supportive regulatory changes are essential.

CONCLUSION: This study lays the groundwork for promoting more environmentally sustainable behaviour in gynaecological surgery. The key recommendations, addressing hospital regulations, leadership, policy revisions, collaboration with the industry, guideline development and education, offer practical steps towards a more sustainable healthcare system. Encouraging environmentally sustainable practices should be embraced to enhance the well-being of both our planet and our population, driving us closer to a more environmentally sustainable future in healthcare.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)716-724
Number of pages9
JournalBJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Volume131
Issue number5
Early online date16 Nov 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2024

Bibliographical note

© 2023 The Authors. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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