As Hurricane Milton approaches, health facilities across Florida are implementing closure plans to ensure the safety of both patients and staff. It’s vital for residents to stay informed about these changes, especially if they require medical services or medications during this time. Below is a comprehensive overview of the current closure plans for various healthcare facilities, along with essential tips for preparing your health needs ahead of the storm.
Current Health Facility Closure Plans
GuideWell Emergency Doctors (GEMD)
Pinellas County:
- Palm Harbor: 2375 Curlew Rd., Dunedin – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- St. Petersburg: 1425 4th St. N., St. Petersburg – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- Largo: 1603 Missouri Ave N., Largo – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
Hillsborough County:
A decision regarding early closure on Tuesday will be made Tuesday. All Hillsborough locations will be CLOSED Wednesday, October 9.
- University Area: 2330 E. Fletcher Ave., Tampa – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- West Tampa: 4748 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- North Tampa: 16318 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
Central Florida:
GEMD locations in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties will operate on Tuesday but will be CLOSED Wednesday, October 9.
- Orlando: 1706 N. Semoran Blvd – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- Dunedin: 2375 Curlew Rd. – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- Winter Park: 113 N. Orlando Ave. – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- Ocoee: 9580 W. Colonial Dr. – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
- Kissimmee: 2465 N. Orange Blossom Trl. – CLOSED Wednesday, October 9
Further updates on Thursday and Friday operations will be provided as the situation develops.
Sanitas Medical Centers
All Sanitas Medical Center locations in West and Central Florida will close at noon on Tuesday, October 8, and will remain CLOSED on Wednesday, October 9.
- Central Florida locations will also be CLOSED Thursday, October 10.
- Decisions regarding Thursday operations for West Florida locations will be made later.
Clinics in Jacksonville and Tallahassee will remain open but will continue to be monitored. Locations in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties are expected to remain operational.
Florida Blue Centers
All Florida Blue Centers in West and Central Florida will be CLOSED from Tuesday, October 8, through Thursday, October 10. This includes centers in:
- Fort Myers
- Sarasota
- Clearwater
- Tampa area
- Orlando area
- Apopka
- Winter Park
- Kissimmee
- St. Cloud
Florida Blue Centers in Orlando, Jacksonville, and Pensacola are expected to remain open until further notice.
Florida Healthcare Plans (FHCP)
All FHCP facilities will be closed on Thursday, October 10. Decisions regarding West Florida locations for October 9 will be announced at a later time.
Capital Health Plan (CHP)
Currently, all Capital Health Plan locations are expected to remain open.
Emergency Medication Refills
In response to the impending hurricane, Florida Blue is allowing members across Florida to get an early refill of medications. Members can obtain a 30-day emergency supply from in-network pharmacies. Please note that members who visit out-of-network pharmacies may face restrictions on early refills.
Health Care Hurricane Checklist
- Refill Medications & Restock Medical Supplies: Ensure you have at least a two-week supply of necessary prescription and over-the-counter medications. Stock up on any medical supplies you regularly use, such as blood testing strips or oxygen tanks.
- Protect Medications & Supplies: Store medications and medical supplies in a waterproof container to prevent damage from flooding.
- Make a Medication List: Keep a list of all medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors in a safe, dry location. Include health insurance cards and other important documents.
- Create a Medical Contact List: Compile contact numbers for your primary care doctor, specialists, pharmacy, and medical facilities.
- Prepare or Restock a First Aid Kit: Ensure your first aid kit contains essential items that are not expired. It should include antihistamines, adhesive bandages, antibiotic cream, gloves, and tweezers, among others. Don’t forget items like sunscreen and bug repellent.
- Have Ice Ready: If you rely on medications that need refrigeration (like insulin), prepare ice packs or coolers in case of power outages. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about necessary storage requirements for your medications before the storm.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, it is critical for residents of Florida to stay informed about health facility closures and to prepare adequately for potential disruptions in healthcare services. By following the outlined healthcare checklist and taking the necessary precautions, individuals can help safeguard their health and well-being during this challenging time. Keep an eye on updates from local healthcare providers and emergency services to stay informed and prepared. Stay safe!