Disaster Preparedness Steps

Step 1: Get Ready

• Keep your prescriptions up to date.
• Ask your doctor to give you a copy of helpful medical information, and keep that information with you.
• Keep track of approaching storms via weather forecasts. Be sure to refill your prescriptions a few days before a storm arrives; do not wait until the last minute!
   

Step 2: Evacuate when instructed and take:

• All of your medications in their original bottles (with labels attached).
• A backup list of all medications you take and their dosages (use the Hurricane Preparedness form).
• Helpful medical information.
• Your clinic’s name, your doctor’s name, and phone number.
• Your medical and insurance cards.
• Picture identification, Social Security card, and any important legal papers.
• Medical equipment and supplies (dentures, glucometers & strips, nebulizers, and crutches).
• Personal hygiene items.
• Water, non-perishable food, and cash.
• The Hurricane Preparedness form with your medications and important numbers.
   

Step 3: Medication, Medication, Medication

• Make sure you bring all medications with you.
• If your HIV medications are running out, do not skip doses to stretch them out. Get refills as soon as possible!
• If you run out of one of your HIV medications – stop all of your HIV medications until you can get refills. Taking incomplete doses of your HIV regimen could lead to therapy complications later.
• Do not stop taking other medications for other medical conditions unrelated to your HIV infection. Seek refills from a local provider or pharmacy.
• If you evacuate or your normal pharmacy is closed, call the Texas HIV Medication Program at 800-255-1090. You can speak to any staff person to find out how to get your medications.