Objective To summarize WHO′s building and measurement tools for climate-resilient health systems (CRHS), analyze their global application status and applications strategies in different countries, and inform China′s CRHS development.

Methods The related literature including policies or studies published in English or Chinese before December 2024 was comprehensively searched against the Web of Science, WHO Library, government publications of different countries, reports, official websites of health departments and relevant authorities, other international organizations′ official websites, and Google Scholar. After rigorous screening, 10 WHO-aligned national government reports/action plans were included for in-depth analysis.

Results Globally, high-income countries such as Canada and climate-sensitive nations such as Bangladesh have applied these tools. The strategies adopted by countries primarily focused on policy integration, international cooperation, phased implementation, and localization. China′s CRHS development still faces challenges, especially in the health talent domain. Accordingly, China needs strengthened health workforce development and context-specific adaptation of tools.

Conclusions WHO tools provide vital guidance for building CRHS. Countries should adapt them contextually to enhance CRHS resilience.