Preparing individuals with spinal cord injury for extreme storms in the era of climate change

Abstract

Increasing population exposure to extreme weather conditions, a hallmark of this era of progressive climate change [1], creates a compelling urgency to safeguard individuals living with special medical needs who may be particularly challenged by such events. Here we discuss the heightened vulnerabilities and unique preparedness needs of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in the context of climate-driven hurricanes. We outline a set of physician roles aimed at preparing patients, caregivers, and providers to proactively mitigate these risks.

It is time to put hurricane preparedness on the radar for individuals living with spinal cord injury

“…They may confront physical, emotional, and financial stressors as they attempt to fulfill their care needs. We have previously written about the hardships faced by this population [3] and we highlight the most pressing concerns in Table 1.…”

“…They should be educated about the need to register for evacuation assistance with their local governmental agencies in advance of a storm. Each person with SCI needs to acquire, maintain, and replenish a 7-day supply of essentials -at a minimum-including food, water, catheters, and medications [3].…”

“…Health care providers should help coordinate and/or provide prompt care for individuals with SCI who experience stormrelated illnesses or injuries. Providers should assist those needing repairs or replacements for damaged or lost equipment and be available for ordering necessary supplies and medications, which similarly may be lost or damaged [3]. Health care professionals should provide orders for individuals with SCI to resume home health or outpatient therapies, with minimal interruption, as soon as these services are once again available in the community.…”

“…Its protracted passage over the Northwest Bahamas underscored two very dangerous trends: (1) hurricanes are becoming increasingly hazardous and (2) hardships associated with these storms are disproportionately challenging for those with chronic medical problems [1,2]. These observations have important implications for safeguarding individuals with disabilities and special medical needs residing in coastal or island communities, especially those living with spinal cord injury (SCI) [3].…”

Letter to the Editor on “Disaster Rehabilitation Response Plan: Now or Never”

“…2 We have previously written about the unique challenges for individuals with spinal cord injury after hurricanes. 3 Furthermore, the difficulties faced by those with disabilities in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were well documented in a report by the National Council on Disability. 4 For many people living with disabilities, disasters disrupt access to health care services, providers, medications, supplies, and assistive technologies.…”