| Hurricane Preparedness: Patients with Disabilities |
Hurricane Preparedness for Patients with Special NeedsPhysicians play a critical role in helping vulnerable patients prepare for hurricanes, power outages, evacuations, and disruptions in medical care. Did You Know?Higher RiskPeople with disabilities are at significantly higher risk for storm-related injury, death, and property damage. Less PreparedIndividuals with disabilities are less likely than others to be prepared for natural disasters. Provider GapFewer than 5% of older adults report discussing emergency preparedness with a healthcare provider. You Can Help!Identify patients who may need additional assistance before, during, and after a storm. Patients Who May Have Special Needs During a Hurricane✓ Mobility-impaired individuals
✓ Assistance with daily living activities
✓ Electricity-dependent medical equipment users
✓ Cognitive impairments
✓ Mental health or neurobehavioral conditions
✓ Hearing or vision impairments
✓ Critical medication requirements
✓ Ongoing medical treatment needs
✓ Nursing home or assisted living residents
Special Considerations for Patients on DialysisWear a Medical ID. Medical identification provides critical information to emergency personnel during disasters and evacuations. Medical ID ResourcesMedical Alert FoundationNational Kidney FoundationDisaster Planning GuideEmergency Meal PlanningEmergency Meal Plan for Dialysis PatientsEmergency Planning GuideDownload Planning Guide (PDF)DaVita ResourcesEmergency Preparedness InformationFresenius Kidney CareDisaster Preparation ResourcesHow Can Physicians Help?Assess Patient NeedsIdentify barriers to receiving emergency information, transportation, caregiving services, medications, and evacuation assistance. Review Emergency SuppliesEncourage at least a three-day supply of medications, medical equipment, wound care items, food, water, and service animal supplies. Prepare for Power OutagesEducate patients and caregivers about maintaining safety during prolonged electrical outages. Encourage RegistrationEnsure patients dependent on life-sustaining equipment register with utilities and local emergency management programs. Create Evacuation PlansReview evacuation routes, transportation options, shelter plans, and accommodations for service animals and pets. Medication PreparednessAdvise patients never to let critical medications fall below a three-day emergency supply during hurricane season. Patient Preparedness Resources
A Conversation Can Save a LifeHurricane preparedness discussions should be part of routine care for patients with disabilities, chronic illness, mobility limitations, dialysis needs, and dependence on medical equipment. |
1/15/2027 » 1/17/2027
60th FSN Annual Meeting
Florida Women in Nephrology Chair
FSN President
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