The State of Healthcare Post-Hurricanes Helene and Milton: Part 1

The back-to-back devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton has left a trail of destruction, not just in the form of physical damage to infrastructure, but in the capacity of healthcare systems to respond to the emerging crises. While emergency efforts are in full swing, the healthcare sector now faces unprecedented challenges in the aftermath, ranging from supply chain disruptions to new waves of public health emergencies.

In the first of this two-parter, we shed light on key challenges healthcare providers face in the post-hurricane landscape.

1. A Second Surge: Public Health Crises Post-Flooding

Health officials are warning of a potential second wave of medical crises in western North Carolina. This surge is expected to be driven by infections, respiratory illnesses, and stress-related conditions exacerbated by water shortages and unsanitary conditions. Hospitals, already overwhelmed from trauma cases, are now bracing for an influx of patients suffering from staph, tetanus, norovirus, and respiratory issues like COVID-19 and influenza.

2. Supply Chain Impact on Surgical Services

Hurricanes Helene and Milton have caused significant disruptions in the supply of IV fluids, essential for surgeries. Flooding from Helene damaged Baxter International’s North Carolina facility, which supplies 60% of the U.S. market. This has forced hospitals to delay non-emergency surgeries to conserve supplies. Further compounding the issue, B. Braun Medical temporarily closed two Florida facilities due to Milton.

Hospitals across the country are postponing elective surgeries and seeking alternative suppliers. The FDA has permitted temporary imports of IV fluids, but the shortage continues to affect surgical services, delaying patient care.

3. Impact on Hospital Operations

Hospitals in Florida are gradually reopening after Hurricane Milton, having successfully evacuated over 200 healthcare facilities, including 10 hospitals.

Tampa General Hospital, the region’s primary trauma center, remained operational during the storm, thanks to extensive preparations, including deploying an impermeable “aquafence” and stockpiling five days' worth of supplies. However, satellite branches of the hospital remained closed, with some set to reopen shortly. HCA Healthcare, which evacuated over 400 patients across its Florida hospitals, reported several closures but has begun reopening facilities.

Despite the extensive preparations, infrastructure damage remains a challenge, with power outages and inaccessible or damaged roads due to floods.

4. The Psychological Toll

Dr. Sandro Galea, dean of Boston University's School of Public Health, highlighted in an NPR interview that hurricanes like Helene and Milton can cause significant mental health trauma in addition to physical destruction. Stressors such as property loss, disrupted routines, and school closures can contribute to conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Vulnerable populations, including those with limited financial and social resources, are at heightened risk for post-disaster mental health challenges.

To aid recovery, restoring daily life, including housing and employment, is essential. Moreover, mental health resources must be readily available for those experiencing symptoms. Dr. Galea advised individuals facing future hurricanes to prepare psychologically by acknowledging the potential mental health impacts, building a supportive social network, and maintaining open communication with employers regarding potential evacuations.

Looking Ahead: Insights from Modality Global Advisors

The challenges discussed here are just the beginning of what promises to be a long road to recovery for the healthcare sector in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. These crises expose the vulnerabilities in our current systems and serve as a call to action for creating more resilient healthcare frameworks.

As our healthcare systems do their best to bounce back, it is crucial to support those affected by the hurricanes. You can make a difference by donating to the American Red Cross, which provides vital assistance to individuals and families impacted by these disasters. Your contribution can help ensure that healthcare and essential services are available to those in need. To donate, please visit www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html

In Part 2 of this series, Modality Global Advisors will provide expert insights into strategies for healthcare organizations to strengthen their emergency preparedness, manage resource shortages, and ensure continuity of care in future disasters. Stay tuned as we explore how operational efficiency, digital health tools, and leadership are key to navigating this new healthcare landscape.

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