EClinicalMedicine, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2019.12.002 · Published: January 1, 2020
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, posing significant risks to vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). These individuals face unique challenges during hurricanes, including evacuation difficulties, mobility limitations, and dependence on specialized medical equipment and care. Hurricanes can disrupt essential services such as power, healthcare, and home health assistance, exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with SCI. Post-storm conditions, including hazardous debris, contaminated water, and extreme temperatures, further compromise their health and well-being. Physicians and health professionals play a crucial role in preparing individuals with SCI for hurricanes. This includes personal preparedness, facility readiness, patient education, and consultation with community leaders to ensure the specific needs of this population are addressed in disaster planning and response efforts.
Educate patients with SCI and their caregivers on developing comprehensive evacuation plans, securing essential supplies, and managing medical needs during and after hurricanes.
Retrofit clinical care facilities to withstand stronger storms and ensure personnel are trained to handle disaster scenarios, including the specific needs of individuals with SCI.
Foster collaboration between healthcare professionals, public health agencies, and emergency management partners to integrate the needs of individuals with SCI into community-wide disaster preparedness and response efforts.