In light of Tropical Storm Debby’s significant impact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra has declared Public Health Emergencies (PHEs) for Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. These declarations, which follow President Biden’s emergency proclamations, provide the flexibility needed to address the health care needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries during this critical time.

Addressing Public Health Emergencies After Tropical Storm Debby

Public Health Emergencies are vital in ensuring communities receive the necessary support during natural disasters. HHS has mobilized federal health care teams and resources to ensure that those affected by Tropical Storm Debby have access to essential medical care. In South Carolina, around 50 medical professionals and disaster management specialists from the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) are on standby, ready to assist with any public health needs. These experts collaborate with state health officials and FEMA to address the immediate health concerns brought on by the storm.

NDMS teams are equipped to provide a range of services, including assessing health care facilities, caring for patients in hard-hit areas, and evacuating those who need to be moved to safer locations. Should the situation worsen, ASPR is prepared to send additional personnel, ensuring a strong response to the ongoing public health emergencies triggered by the storm.

The HHS emPOWER program is also essential in these public health emergencies, as it identifies Medicare beneficiaries who rely on medical devices and services like oxygen and dialysis, helping to anticipate and address their needs during the storm.

Additionally, the Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7 crisis counseling for those emotionally affected by Tropical Storm Debby, providing vital support to the impacted communities.

To aid in the response to these public health emergencies, HHS has also waived certain HIPAA Privacy Rule provisions, allowing for more flexible health care delivery in the affected areas. These measures, authorized under federal law, are effective retroactively from early August 2024.

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