Halifax Regional Medical Center began taking the necessary steps and preparation measures as early as last week in anticipation of Hurricane Florence’s arrival.

As part of their plan, they looked at the current patient census, anticipated patient transfers from other hospitals, ordered extra supplies and medications, and ensured facility service devices such as backup generators were prepared for potential use, just to name a few of the tasks on their long list of to-do’s.

“Every hurricane is different and this one is no exception,” said President and CEO Will Mahone. “We’re in the business of taking care of our patients, no matter the weather conditions. Our physicians, nurses and staff sacrifice a lot, including being at home with their families during times like these, and their continued dedication to providing excellent and compassionate healthcare does not go unnoticed.”

The hospital also offers the following emergency healthcare tips and reminders to remember during your hurricane preparation:

• If you are a homebound patient, check chronic medications and contact your pharmacies, as needed. Ensure you have at least one to two weeks’ worth of supplies on hand.
• Check oxygen tanks and contact your supplier before the storm hits if you do not have backup tanks.
• If you’re receiving home health services, make sure your home health provider has developed a special hurricane plan for you.
• Check your durable medical equipment, such as bipap machines or nebulizer equipment, for advice on what to do in the event of sustained power outages.
• Make sure you have clean drinking water available. One gallon per person, per day for a three-day supply.
• Stock up on non-perishable (canned) and easy to prepare food (make sure you have a manual can opener). Have at least a three-day supply.
• Make sure you have batteries for flashlights or candles.
• Make sure you have gas in your vehicle or gas available for generators.
• Make sure you have cash on hand in case ATM machines are down.
• Have a battery powered radio and first aid kit available.

Should you evacuate, remember to take with you:

• All medications
• Written care instructions and health records
• Special medical equipment
• Bedding
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Cell phone and charger
• Family and emergency contact information

In addition, the following outpatient clinic and office closures have been announced by Halifax Regional in anticipated of the inclement weather:

• Halifax Works Healthcare Express- Closed Thursday through Saturday
• Roanoke Clinic- Closed Thursday and Friday
• Roanoke Valley Pulmonology- Closed Thursday and Friday
• Roanoke Valley Surgical Associates- Closed Thursday and Friday
• Halifax Regional Cardiology- Closed Thursday, and Friday
• Halifax Regional Wound Care Center- Closed Thursday and Friday
• Halifax Regional Physical Therapy- Closed at 12 noon on Thursday and Friday
• Halifax Regional Radiology Services- Closed at 12 noon on Thursday and Friday

All locations will resume normal business hours on Monday unless otherwise announced.

All outpatient clinics will have a provider on call in case of emergency during these closures. If you have an appointment or elective procedure scheduled on one of the above closure dates, a staff member will contact you to reschedule your appointment.

“Halifax Regional is not a designated shelter location and is not equipped to serve as a shelter during the storm, but our resources are committed to the safety and care of our patients and staff who will remain here for the duration of the storm,” said Jerrica Edmonds, marketing and communications manager.

For information about designated shelter locations, please contact the Halifax County non-emergency helpline at 252-583-2368.