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Prepare Your Patients and Practice for Hurricane Season

Date: 06/18/25

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is officially underway—and it’s expected to be an active one. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there’s a 60% chance of an above-normal season, with 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) .

With hurricane season running from June 1 through November 30, and Louisiana often in the path of major storms, now is the time to prepare—both for your patients and your practice.

Helping Your Patients Get Ready

Encourage all patients to create a disaster game plan and pack an emergency kit. A great resource to share is GetAGamePlan.org, which offers step-by-step guidance.

Some patients, especially those with chronic conditions or mobility challenges, may need extra support. If they’re Louisiana Healthcare Connections members, here’s how you can help:

  • Hurricane & Disaster Preparedness Webpage
    Offers practical tips for managing medical needs during a storm—like how to pack medications and plan for power outages affecting medical devices.
  • Care Management Support 
    Our Care Management team can help members with special health needs develop a personalized disaster plan.

➤ Refer a patient through the secure provider portal or call 1-866-595-8133 x 69016.

Preparing Your Practice

No part of Louisiana is immune to hurricanes. Whether you're in a coastal parish or further inland, your practice needs a solid plan to protect staff, patients, and operations.

Healthcare Ready recommends these key steps:

  1. Risk Assessment & Planning 
    Identify vulnerabilities, evacuation routes, communication protocols, and backup power sources.
  2. Staff Training 
    Conduct regular drills and ensure everyone knows their role in an emergency.
  3. Stockpile Essentials 
    Keep a supply of medications, medical equipment, and other critical items. Build relationships with multiple suppliers to avoid shortages.
  4. Secure Your
    Facility Install storm shutters, reinforce windows and doors, and implement flood protection measures.

  5. Collaborate with Community Partners
    Work with local agencies and emergency responders to coordinate resources and evacuation plans.

    Preparedness saves lives. By taking proactive steps now, you can help ensure the safety of your patients and the resilience of your practice throughout hurricane season.