Understanding current and projected emergency department presentations and associated healthcare costs in a changing thermal climate in Adelaide, South Australia.

Background: Exposure to extreme temperatures is associated with increased emergency department (ED) presentations. The resulting burden on health service costs and the potential impact of climate change is largely unknown. This study examines the temperature-EDs/cost relationships in Adelaide, South Australia and how this may be impacted by increasing temperatures.

Evaluating cost benefits from a heat health warning system in Adelaide, South Australia.

Objective: To examine the cost benefits of a heat health warning system (HHWS) in South Australia.

Methods: Information from key agencies was used to estimate the costs associated with the South Australian HHWS, including for three targeted public health interventions. Health cost savings were estimated based on previously reported HHWS-attributable reductions in hospital and emergency department (ED) admissions and ambulance callouts.