Americans ill-prepared for health issues following natural disasters

Americans are ill-prepared to handle health conditions in the event of a natural disaster, according to a new survey commissioned by Healthcare Ready, a non-profit that works with the public and private sector to address healthcare resiliency before, during and after disasters. Of 1,122 adults surveyed, about three quarters were confident they could reach their local hospital in case of disaster. However, less than half (43 percent) said they could list all their prescriptions and dosages if a disaster forced them to leave their homes without medications or medical supplies. The results of the survey indicate an opportunity for the public and private healthcare sectors to come together to build and maintain the resiliency of communities, so that patients can be cared for and families are able to return to their lives as soon as possible after a disaster, Healthcare Ready Executive Director Emily Lord said in the announcement about the survey findings. Announcement