Are You Medically Ready for a Storm?

Hurricane preparation is part of life in South Louisiana. We know to stock up on water, check the generator, and keep an eye on the forecast. But there is another important part of hurricane season prep that can be easy to overlook: making sure you are prepared to manage your health if a storm causes power outages, road closures, evacuations, or temporary disruptions to local pharmacies and clinics. 

Taking a few simple steps before a storm is headed our way can help you avoid unnecessary stress and stay on top of your medical needs.

Check Your Prescription Medications

Don’t wait until a hurricane enters the Gulf to look at your prescription bottles. Review your medications regularly and make sure you know when each one is due for a refill.

Try to avoid running low on medications that you take every day, especially those used to manage conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease, or other ongoing health concerns. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about how to maintain an appropriate emergency supply.

Keep all medications in their original, labeled containers. This makes it easier to identify each prescription and provides important dosage and pharmacy information if you need care away from home.

Make a Medication and Health Information List 

If you have to evacuate or visit an unfamiliar clinic, urgent care center, or pharmacy, you may be asked for information about your health history.

Create a list that includes:

  • The name and dosage of each medication you take
  • How often you take it
  • Any medication or food allergies
  • Your medical conditions
  • Your healthcare provider’s contact information
  • Your preferred pharmacy
  • Any medical equipment or supplies you use

Keep a printed copy with your important documents in a waterproof bag. It is also helpful to save a copy on your phone or take photos of your prescription labels.

Plan for Medications That Require Refrigeration

Some medications, including certain types of insulin, must be kept within a particular temperature range. Power outages can make proper storage difficult.

Before a storm, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider how your medication should be stored if the electricity goes out. Keep an insulated cooler and cold packs available when appropriate, but do not place medication directly on ice unless you have been instructed to do so, since extreme temperatures can damage some medicines.

Don’t Forget Medical Supplies and Equipment

Prescriptions aren’t the only healthcare items you may need. Include necessary medical supplies in your hurricane kit, such as inhalers, glucose-testing supplies, syringes, hearing-aid batteries, contact lens supplies, mobility-device accessories, or other items you regularly depend on.

Think about any medical equipment you or a family member uses each day that depends on electricity or batteries. This may include an oxygen concentrator, CPAP machine, nebulizer, power wheelchair, hearing aids, glucose monitor, or other devices. Charge equipment before severe weather arrives and keep extra batteries or backup power options available when possible. Write down the device model, supplier, and customer service number in case you need assistance. 

Gather Everyday Health Supplies 

Your storm health kit can also include commonly used over-the-counter products such as pain and fever reducers, antihistamines, first-aid supplies, and medications you regularly use for minor illnesses. Check expiration dates at the beginning of hurricane season and replace expired products. And if you wear glasses, consider keeping a backup pair with your supplies.

Make a Plan Before the Rush 

Once a storm is approaching, pharmacies and healthcare offices may become busy or adjust their hours. Take a few minutes now to make sure you are prepared to manage your health during an emergency.

Teche Health is here to help you care for your health throughout hurricane season and all year long. If you have questions about your medications, ongoing health needs, or preparing for disruptions in care, schedule an appointment with your Teche Health provider before the next storm threatens.