Utilizing the Inflation Reduction Act to Reduce Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of Boston Medical Center and OhioHealth

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity (OCCHE) has released two case studies showcasing how Boston Medical Center and OhioHealth are utilizing the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to reduce carbon emissions and promote health equity.

Pioneering Climate Initiatives in Healthcare

The case studies are designed to guide other health organizations in harnessing IRA funds for energy efficiency and sustainability projects. They highlight Boston Medical Center’s innovative pilot program, which provides solar energy credits to patients, and OhioHealth’s initiative to fund electric vehicle charging stations using IRA tax incentives.

ADM Rachel L. Levine, MD, Assistant Secretary for Health, lauded these efforts. “Boston Medical Center and OhioHealth are showing their peers the power of the Inflation Reduction Act to save hospitals money and reduce environmental health burdens at the same time,” Levine said. She emphasized that the IRA presents unprecedented opportunities for healthcare providers to make long-term investments that benefit both the environment and public health.

Boston Medical Center: Clean Power Prescription

Boston Medical Center’s Clean Power Prescription program stands out as a model for integrating renewable energy into patient care. By providing solar energy credits to patients, the medical center not only reduces its own carbon footprint but also helps patients lower their energy costs. This initiative addresses both environmental and economic health disparities, demonstrating a practical application of the IRA’s resources.

OhioHealth: Expanding Electric Vehicle Charging

OhioHealth’s project focuses on installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in rural areas, funded by IRA tax incentives. These stations offer free charging to residents, promoting the adoption of clean energy vehicles in underserved communities. This approach not only decreases local emissions but also provides a valuable service to rural populations, who often lack access to such infrastructure.

Tackling Climate Change & Boosting Health Equity

These initiatives highlight the critical role healthcare providers can play in combating climate change while advancing health equity. By leveraging IRA funding, these organizations can maintain operations during emergencies, reduce pollution, and contribute to broader climate goals. The case studies also serve as a blueprint for other healthcare providers looking to adopt similar strategies.

The Catalytic Program on Utilizing the IRA, an ongoing effort by OCCHE, connects safety net healthcare providers to the billions of dollars available through the IRA. This program includes over two dozen hours of webinars and a Quickfinder tool summarizing key IRA programs and policies. These resources aim to educate and empower healthcare providers to undertake environmentally sustainable projects.

Future Outlook

The success stories of Boston Medical Center and OhioHealth point to a promising future. As more healthcare providers explore the potential of the IRA, we can expect to see a rise in innovative projects that marry climate action with health equity. OCCHE plans to release additional case studies throughout the year, offering continuous inspiration and guidance.

By promoting these pioneering efforts, the HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity hopes to drive widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the healthcare sector. This initiative not only protects public health but also supports the nation’s climate objectives, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future.

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