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Family Doctors Could Reduce ER Visits by 15% in Canada, Report Finds

A recent report by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reveals that 15% of emergency room visits in Canada could be managed by family doctors. The report, covering data from April 2023 to March 2024, highlights the significant role primary care could play in alleviating the pressure on emergency departments. The findings indicate that many Canadians, especially those without regular access to a family doctor, turn to emergency departments for conditions that could be managed in primary care. This includes common ailments such as colds, sore throats, and ear infections. The report also suggests that over half of these visits could be managed virtually, pointing to the potential benefits of telemedicine. Dr. Sunita Karmakar-Hore, CIHI’s manager of health system performance reporting, emphasized the need for improved access to primary and virtual care. "When access to a regular care provider is challenging, people often turn to emergency departments to receive the ca...
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Global Energy-Related CO2 Emissions Reach Unprecedented Levels in 2023

 

In a concerning development, global energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) surged to a record high last year. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that these emissions rose by 410 million tonnes, representing a 1.1% increase, bringing the total to 37.4 billion tonnes.

Several factors contributed to this alarming trend:

  1. Fossil Fuel Use in Drought-Affected Regions: Countries grappling with droughts faced challenges in hydropower production. As a result, they turned to fossil fuels, exacerbating emissions.
  2. China’s Economic Reopening: China’s economy rebounded, leading to increased energy demand and subsequent emissions.
  3. Renewables and Electric Vehicles: While clean technologies like wind, solar, and electric vehicles helped curb emissions growth, other factors offset these gains.

Scientists emphasize that steep cuts in CO2 emissions are essential to meet global climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement. Without rapid reductions, we risk runaway climate change. The challenge lies in swiftly transitioning away from fossil fuels and embracing sustainable alternatives.

Regional Trends

  • United States: Energy-related emissions fell by 4.1%, primarily driven by reductions in the electricity sector.
  • European Union: Emissions dropped by nearly nine per cent due to increased renewable power generation and decreased coal and gas power.
  • China: Despite contributing significantly to solar, wind, and electric vehicle additions, China’s emissions rose by 5.2% as it recovered from COVID-19-related lockdowns.

Globally, electric vehicles accounted for one in five new car sales in 2023, reaching 14 million—a remarkable 35% increase compared to 2022.

The urgency to address this crisis cannot be overstated. Our collective efforts must focus on sustainable energy sources and innovative solutions to combat climate change. 

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