Hospitals unprepared for extreme heat, staff and patients at risk, warns RCP

Dr Hilary Williams, clinical vice president at the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), has warned that extreme heat conditions in hospitals could put patients and staff at risk. 

A 2025 survey found 58% of physicians felt their workplace was unprepared for extreme weather events, while 75% were concerned about climate change affecting patient health.

Williams said: “This week, physician colleagues across the country have told us the significant impact the heat is having on them, their patients and their teams. 

“There are reports of older patients arriving at hospital having collapsed or with dehydration. 

“Patients are facing overcrowding, and there are issues with machines, laboratories and kidney dialysis – all fundamental to providing safe patient care.”

Williams added: “The impact of heatwaves on staff cannot be overstated. There is a sense of foreboding when we see the weather forecast, because we know what is to come, and there is very little staff can do. 

“It is not as simple as buying fans, which can present a fire risk when used alongside oxygen, and may increase the spread of infection. 

“The NHS is already facing enormous pressure from rising demand and workforce shortages. Coupled with an ageing estate, these challenges intensify during extreme weather.”