Hurricane Preparedness - Physicians Society of Central Florida (PSCF)

Hurricane Preparedness

Share |

Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness Resources

Florida hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Physicians and medical practices should have plans in place to protect patients, staff, medical records, medications, and critical equipment before a disaster occurs.

Emergency Resources for Physicians

Prepare Before the Storm

Emergency Planning

Develop evacuation procedures, staff communication plans, emergency contact lists, and backup processes for critical operations.

Medical Supplies

Maintain adequate inventories of medications, PPE, first aid supplies, food, water, flashlights, and batteries.

Protect Your Facility

Secure windows and doors, review generator readiness, and protect temperature-sensitive medications and equipment.

Patient Communication

Inform patients of emergency procedures and provide instructions for accessing care during service interruptions.

Stay Informed

Monitor weather alerts and guidance from local emergency management agencies and public health authorities.

Disaster Preparedness Checklist

Create a staff call tree and emergency contact list.
Establish alternative communication methods.
Back up electronic medical records regularly.
Verify HIPAA compliance procedures during emergencies.
Maintain insurance documentation and proof of coverage.
Coordinate with home health agencies caring for patients.
Develop post-evacuation return-to-work procedures.

Technology & Data Protection

Important: Data loss and power surges are among the most common causes of practice disruption during hurricanes.

Back up all critical data and store copies offsite or in the cloud.
Shut down computers and servers before storm arrival.
Unplug equipment not connected to surge protection.
Move electronics away from windows and flood-prone areas.
Do not reconnect equipment until power is stable.
Test backups and recovery systems regularly.

After the Storm

Assess damage to facilities and equipment.
Document losses for insurance purposes.
Evaluate medical records and data integrity.
Inspect medications exposed to heat, humidity, or flooding.
Restore patient communications and scheduling systems.
Update staff and patients regarding reopening plans.

Source: Florida Medical Association, The Doctors Company, and Florida emergency preparedness resources.

	Edit This Favorite
Name:
Category:
Share:	Yes No, Keep Private

Edit This Favorite