Living in Texas means being ready for hurricane season is a necessary part of life. For individuals who have medical needs, a hurricane's impact can be compounded by power outages, limited access to medical facilities and the disruption of regular care routines.

For expert advice on how people with medical needs can best prepare, we spoke with Dr. Ben Saldana, medical director of Houston Methodist Emergency Care Centers.

"Patients should ask their specialists about specific preparations as these vary between needs, whether for transplants, dialysis, pulmonary disease or something else," advises Dr. Saldana. "You should begin preparing three months prior to hurricane season and reassess after each event to ensure continued improvements in your plan."

Though we are halfway through the season now, you still have time to prepare for the next hurricane.

Prepare medical and insurance records

Create a waterproof container for health information, recommends Dr. Saldana. Your container should include the following:

• A list of emergency contacts, including your doctor's office, pharmacy and important personal contacts with names, phone numbers and email addresses
• A list of medications, including prescription and over-the-counter meds with dosage information
• A list of any illnesses or conditions you have, including dietary needs, allergies and possible related symptoms
• A note describing the best communication method for you, if you have a hearing or speech-related condition
• A copy of your personal ID and medical insurance cards
• A list of local services such as cooling clinics
  
  

While patient access to Houston Methodist MyChart remains available during and after a hurricane, login is largely based on your ability to connect to Wi-Fi and cellular coverage — so secure your important health information in advance.

Stock up on essential medical supplies

In addition to your waterproof container, you should secure a minimum 2-week supply of medications and medical supplies such as syringes. During specific emergency situations, the Texas Pharmacy Act allows pharmacists to dispense early refills of certain prescriptions, so individuals with medical needs can continue treatments without interruption.

Make plans for service animals and pets

You should make an emergency kit for your service animal and any pets as well. Kits should include:

• Important documents like registrations, vaccination and vital medical records
• Enough food to last at least three to five days
• An extra leash and harness
• A mobile pet kennel or carrier
  
  

Consider having your service animal or pet microchipped in advance at your veterinary clinic and ensure the microchip's registered contact information is up to date.

Prepare medication and medical devices for a power outage

Texans know it's not if you will lose power during severe weather but rather when and for how long. Dr. Saldana urges getting ahead of power outages by having a generator and extra batteries for power-dependent equipment and medical devices like oxygen tanks, CPAP machines and even hearing aids. Portable generators, battery backups or uninterruptible power supplies can keep your devices running during a power outage. Make sure you familiarize yourself with how to operate these backup systems before a hurricane strikes.

Individuals using an electric wheelchair or powered mobility device should keep a non-electric option on hand, if possible. A quality cooler and ice packs are also wise investments.

Special considerations for dialysis and infusion therapy

Patients who require dialysis or infusion therapy face unique challenges during a hurricane. Houston Methodist ensures our facilities remain accessible and functioning during a hurricane with hospital generators. According to Dr. Saldana, "Nephrologists and emergency physicians created a robust command center protocol to triage and treat patients in need of emergency dialysis based on specific criteria."

Consider post-hurricane and long-term care

"Post-hurricane cleanup creates a second wave of emergencies due to foodborne and heat illnesses," says Dr. Saldana. "Avoid heavy meals and multiple caffeinated beverages as these, heat and certain medications can exacerbate and accelerate agitation and heat illness." (Related: Tips to Eat Healthy When the Power Goes Out)

Additionally, Dr. Saldana advises dialysis and infusion therapy patients in particular to "adhere to dietary guidelines to avoid fluid overload."

If you are without power after the storm, utilize your local government's community resources and support systems like stand-up shelters for cooling and electricity.

Psychological preparedness and mental health

Anxiety and stress can exacerbate medical conditions, so it's important to have coping strategies in place. "Being prepared for a hurricane is a strategy in itself," says Dr. Saldana, "as this fosters confidence in the knowledge that a plan is available." You can also:

• Preplan activities for children and adults to share, such as games, books and experiences that will offer distractions from the hurricane and its aftermath
• Build a strong network of family, friends and neighbors who can provide emotional support during and after the storm
• Help others, if you're able, by volunteering with local support groups to provide assistance in your community
  
  

Understanding how to prepare for severe weather is crucial for ensuring your safety and well-being during and after a major storm. With the right preparation, resources and support, it is possible to weather the storm safely.