Connect & Support
By Murray Wennerlund published 9-28-2023 updated 1-5-2024
Replacing lost prescriptions, finding medical first-aid centers, assistance with mental health and stress issues. Various organizations and agencies have a role in providing prescriptions and healthcare to disaster survivors in the aftermath of emergencies.
Here are some providers of medical assistance and healthcare services to disaster-affected individuals:
- Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) (Website) ASPR: Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (Website): HHS / ASPR is responsible for public health and healthcare services. During disasters, agencies within HHS, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), work to provide medical support and resources to affected communities.
- Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) (Website) (MAP): MRC units are community-based volunteer organizations that assist in public health emergency responses. They can provide medical services, including prescription assistance and healthcare, to disaster survivors.
- Local Public Health Departments (Website): Local health departments often play a crucial role in disaster response by providing medical services and coordinating with healthcare providers to ensure access to prescriptions and healthcare for survivors.
- Healthcare Providers and Hospitals (Website): Local healthcare providers, hospitals, and medical facilities contribute to disaster response efforts by offering medical care, prescriptions, and healthcare services to disaster survivors.
- Pharmaceutical Companies and Pharmacies (Website): Pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies may assist in providing necessary medications and prescriptions to disaster survivors through donations or coordination with relief organizations.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) (Website): Organizations like Direct Relief, Americares, and International Medical Corps specialize in providing medical assistance, including prescriptions, healthcare services, and medical supplies, during disasters.
- Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs): EMTs are specialized teams of medical professionals that can be deployed to disaster-stricken areas to provide medical care, including prescription distribution, to those in need.
- Local and State Medical Societies: These organizations can play a role in coordinating medical volunteers and resources to address healthcare needs after disasters.
- Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMATs): DMATs are specialized teams of medical professionals trained to provide medical care during disasters and emergencies.
It's important to note that the specific organizations involved in providing prescriptions and healthcare to disaster survivors can vary depending on the nature and scope of the disaster, as well as the location. Coordination among federal, state, and local agencies, along with non-governmental organizations, is crucial to ensure that medical needs are met effectively.
