Examining the repercussions that came from Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012, providers in the Houston area can expect an uptick in services for those with chronic conditions or mental health problems, according to RAND.
Many residents who experienced flooding as a result of Harvey have no doubt lost medication or medical devices such as dialysis machines, which means they will rely on emergency room services for their healthcare needs. Providers that are already burdened with their usual flood recovery efforts should prepare for increased demand in the long-term.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression also usually rise in the wake of natural disasters, and many will not know where to turn to address these issues. Providers treating flood victims should be vigilant to screen for mental health conditions that can go untreated.
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