Hurricanes, specifically in the event of an evacuation, pose
a serious threat to seniors; residents with chronic health
conditions like diabetes, asthma or cardiovascular disease;
and those who regularly take prescription medication. You
may find yourself away from home - or trapped in your
home - for an unknown length of time with uncertain
access to your pharmacies, hospitals and physicians.
Take steps now to be prepared for whatever
hurricane season brings!
Prescriptions
In the event of a storm, most pharmacies will be running
on generator power to fulfill immediate prescription
needs. You can be prepared by:
> Making a list of all your prescriptions
> Maintaining a 30-day supply of your prescriptions
> Keeping an extra pair of prescription glasses or
contacts
> Utilizing your insurance carrier's mail-order
prescription service
Remember, Florida law allows for special refill guidelines
in the event of a hurricane. Certain rules apply, so please
ask your pharmacist for more details.
Insulin Use and Storage
Insulin should be kept refrigerated to keep its potency
through the expiration date. However, in an emergency
situation, insulin left un-refrigerated (between 59
and 86 degrees F) for up to 28 days will maintain
potency.
You can still use insulin that has been stored above 86
degrees F, but it may have lost its potency, which could
result in loss of blood glucose control over time. Patients
with diabetes should review emergency insulin
usage recommendations with their physician.
Additional information can be found at www.diabetes.org.
Oxygen and Other Special Medical Needs
If you rely on oxygen, contact your oxygen supplier when
expecting a hurricane to obtain a two-day supply. If you
receive home healthcare or require electricity for life
support, make emergency plans with your primary care
physician. Consider registering in advance at a
Special Needs Shelter.
Reaching your Physician
In the event you can't reach your primary care physician
and require routine medical care, contact your insurance
carrier and they will have instructions for you. If you
require emergency care, please go to your nearest
emergency room or facility.
Personal Information
As the storm approaches, make sure you have
the following information in a water-proof bag
or container:
> Health insurance ID card
> Social Security card
> Medicare or Medicaid card
> Driver's license and/or passport
> Primary care physician's contact information
> List of medications you're taking
What to Bring in an Evacuation
> 30-day supply of medications
> Medical equipment: canes, walkers, eyeglasses,
hearing aids and batteries
> Plenty of water and snacks
> Emergency Alert tags
> First aid kit
> Hand sanitizer, wipes, toilet tissue and
incontinence items
After the Hurricane and/or Evacuation
> Seek medical attention for wounds or
injuries immediately.
> Don't neglect your emotional and mental health. If you experience stress or depression after a hurricane,
seek professional help right away.
Hurricane season is unpredictable. By following
these simple steps, you can be prepared to stay
healthy.
10 News