Disaster Prep: How to Ensure Your Health Care Needs Are Covered

Natural disasters can develop swiftly, leaving you with little time to figure out safety plans or essential items if evacuation becomes necessary. One critical aspect often overlooked in the rush is health care necessities, such as medications or medical equipment.

“People might remember their diabetes medication but forget their blood sugar monitor, or bring their hearing aids but overlook extra batteries,” warns Dr. Scott Goldberg, medical director of emergency preparedness at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and a seasoned member of a FEMA hurricane response task force.

To help you navigate disasters, here’s a guide on what to expect and how to prioritize your health care needs in your emergency kit.

For those with medical conditions requiring special care, check if your city or county has a special needs registry. This registry helps first responders alert you about disasters and arrange transportation to shelters equipped with medical staff and necessary equipment.

Packing Essentials

While shelters offer safety and basic necessities such as bathrooms and meals, you’ll need to bring your own crucial items:

• Medications and Health Supplies: Don’t just grab the medication from your cabinet. Ensure you have at least a 14-day to 30-day supply of all prescriptions.
• Medical Equipment: Pack all regularly used equipment, such as blood pressure monitors, CPAP machines, wheelchairs, or walkers.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Include essential over-the-counter medicines such as pain relievers or heartburn medication.
• Dietary Needs: Bring foods suited to specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free options, and sufficient provisions for infants or children.
• Nonperishable Snacks: Include items such as nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, and whole-grain crackers or cereals.
• Hygiene Products: Don’t forget soap, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, shampoo, and other personal hygiene items, as shelters might run low on these.

Basic Supplies for Shelter Life

• Sleeping bags or blankets and pillows
• Extra clothing and towels
• A first-aid kit
• Flashlights and batteries
• Chargers and battery packs for electronics

Important Documents

• A list of your medications, including dosage and frequency
• Contact information for your primary care provider and specialists
• Emergency contact numbers
• Pharmacy details
• Copies of birth certificates, driver’s licenses, insurance policies, and health insurance cards
• A copy of your advance directive

Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin gathering your go-bag supplies today and use small suitcases, backpacks, or duffel bags for each family member. Being prepared is the best way to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy during disasters.