Lee Health: Hurricane season

It is hard to believe that the 2023 hurricane season is upon us, especially as many in our community and from our Lee Health team are still recovering from Hurricane Ian's impact and destruction. We all learned a lot from Hurricane Ian, and I’m sure many of us are going into this next hurricane season more prepared, but as Lee Health's president & CEO, I want to remind you to prepare for your health and medical needs.

One of the most important things to do to prepare for hurricane season is to determine if you or your loved ones need access to a special care shelter. Lee Health hospitals and facilities are not hurricane shelters. If you or a loved one requires assistance that exceeds services provided at a general population shelter, you must preregister with Lee County Emergency Management. Visit leegov.com/hurricane, click on "Advanced Planning" and then "Special Needs" for more information and the link to the application.

If a storm is approaching, be sure you have refills of your prescription medications and other essential medical supplies, like oxygen. Florida law allows pharmacies to fill prescriptions in advance during hurricane warnings. Think ahead, too, about preserving refrigerated drugs, like insulin, in case the power goes out – be sure you have enough ice to keep them cool for several days. If you have questions about your drug's safety following a storm and power outage, you can reach out to poison control for assistance.

If you have medical equipment, write down the details, including the size, manufacturer, and company and account numbers. Stock up on batteries, especially if you require batteries that need to be ordered. Consider your need for medical supplies, like catheters and dressings, as well as dietary restrictions, so you can be sure you have appropriate stock of supplies and options available.

If you choose to stay home and use a generator, be sure you know how to properly use it – generators are one of the leading causes of injury and death following a storm.

We sincerely hope that Southwest Florida will be spared any storms this year, but we know we must be prepared, especially when it comes to our health and medical needs.

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Larry Antonucci, M.D., MBA is the president & CEO of Lee Health, Southwest Florida's major destination for health care offering acute care, emergency care, rehabilitation and diagnostic services, health and wellness education, and community outreach and advocacy programs. Visit LeeHealth.org to learn more.