Climate Change and Health in Guyana: Public Sector Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices and Implications for Health System Resilience

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP)of public sector workers in Guyana regarding climate change, its health impacts and implications for building climate-resilient health systems. Methodology: A descriptive mixed-methods case study was conducted using a structured KAP survey administered to 176 public sector workers, including healthcare professionals and a stakeholder workshop involving 33 representatives from key government agencies. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics in IBM Version 26, while qualitative data from group discussions were synthesised into a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) framework to evaluate health system readiness to climate change. Results: Although 69.5% of respondents acknowledge that climate change affects health, only 19.3% correctly defined climate change. Participants most frequently identified direct health impacts such as air-quality, heat related and water-borne diseases, while mental health and nutritional impacts were least recognized. Attitudes were overwhelmingly positive, with high levels of concern and willingness to act; however, practical engagement was limited. Key barriers included insufficient information and uncertainty about appropriate actions. The SWOT analysis highlighted existing policy frameworks and post-COVID-19 response systems as strengths, alongside critical weaknesses such as outdated legislation, limited training, inter-agency fragmentation and workforce attrition. Conclusion: Despite strong concern and motivation among public sector workers, substantial knowledge and practice gaps limit effective climate-health action in Guyana. Institutionalised training, intersectoral collaboration and targeted capacity building are essential to strengthen climate-resilient health systems.