Therapist Plan: Hurricanes & Tropical Storms

Introduction 

Florida’s unique geography and climate make hurricanes a recurring and serious threat to the safety of patients, staff, and facilities. As an outpatient therapy company providing services both in our clinic and directly in patients’ homes, we carry a dual responsibility: safeguarding the continuity of care across diverse settings and ensuring the well-being of everyone we serve.  

This Hurricane Emergency Plan outlines the procedures, responsibilities, and communication strategies our organization will follow before, during, and after a storm. It is designed to:

Protect Patients and Families:  Ensure that individuals receiving therapy—whether in our clinics or at home—are supported with clear guidance, emergency resources, and continuity of care whenever possible.

Safeguard Staff and Facilities:  Provide protocols for staff safety, facility preparation, and rapid response to storm-related hazards.

Maintain Continuity of Care:   Establish flexible service delivery options to minimize disruption to therapy services.

Comply with Regulatory Standards:   Align with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Emergency Preparedness Rule, Florida Department of Health requirements, and local emergency management directives.

Promote Clear Communication:   Define channels for timely updates between patients, caregivers, staff, and community partners.

This plan is not only a regulatory requirement but also a reflection of our commitment to patient safety, dignity, and independence. By preparing thoroughly and responding decisively, we aim to reduce risks, support recovery, and continue delivering high-quality therapy services even in the face of Florida’s most challenging weather events.

Offsite Therapy Team Responsibilities

HURRICANE WATCH

• Identify whether any of your patients have urgent rehabilitation needs (post-surgical or high fall risk), and review options and plans with them. Therapists and/or caregivers may not be able to visit during or after a storm, and alternative plans should be in place.

• Provide resources to patients as needed, including Special Needs Registry and Disaster Checklists (resources attached)

HURRICANE WARNING

• Reschedule patient appointments that are at risk.

• Ensure your contact information is up-to-date with LifeCare 

• Monitor communication from LifeCare via HUCU and text messaging

DURING THE STORM

• Shelter in place

AFTER THE STORM

• Let LifeCare know how you are doing and that you are safe!

• Communicate any knowledge you have of road damage/area damage with the team.

• Monitor HUCU for updates on impact to building and any interim operational plans